Experimental investigation of the crushing characteristics in sandwich panels in the application of light vehicles using three-point bending tests

•The results revealed the behavioral similarity of Z1 to Z4 specimens with the B-shaped tubes.•The crushing parameters were increased with increasing the number of cores.•It was found that the highest energy absorption was related to SPY specimen, which was also corresponding to the highest maximum force and efficiency among other specimens.•According to the results of this study and the nature of the frontal accidents, it is better to place the radiator in front of the car so that the B-shaped pipes are horizontal.