a crash sensor for use in a safety system of an automotive vehicle is molded directly into a body component , with no intervening housing being provided . the body component may be a vehicle cross member , such as for reinforcing a radiator grill opening . the crash sensor is molded into the body component together with connections and / or connecting lines and / or plug - in connections and / or electronic circuit board . the crash sensor may be encased in a protective layer prior to being molded into the body component .