A method for achieving a constant average deceleration of a vehicle is
disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes comparing an
effective load mass of the vehicle to a baseline load mass. If the
effective load mass differs from the baseline load mass by at least a
designated percentage, then upon detection of a vehicle impact, energy
absorbing structures within the vehicle are adjusted so as to alter crush
forces of the vehicle, thereby resulting in a desired average deceleration
of the vehicle.
