The test simulates a side vehicle impact into rigid roadside objects such as trees or light poles. This case often occurs by losing control owing to speeding, but also due to misjudgement of a corner or because of a skid in slippery conditions.
This test places very high demands on the vehicle, as the impact acts on a very limited area of the vehicle and thus triggers very high deformation forces. In real life, such accidents often end in serious injuries or even death.
For electric vehicles, this test is particularly important. Since the battery is installed on the vehicle underbody and the collision point is therefore closer to the battery, it bears a greater impact and crushing force.
Source: CCTV News | retrieved 2021-06-17