bodyshell

English

Alternative forms

• body shell

Etymology

From body +‎ shell.

Noun

bodyshell (plural bodyshells)

1. The main body of a motor car, that rests on the chassis and into which is fitted the engine, mechanical and electrical systems, seats etc.
2. (rail transport) The metal body of a rail vehicle, minus seats, doors and other fittings.
   • 2024 December 27, Pip Dunn, “Network News: Hitachi pushes on with '810' assembly and testing”, in RAIL, number 1025, page 20:

     Currently, bodyshells for units 810024/025 are on the weld line. […] In the paint shop are bodyshells for 810022/023, which are undergoing a meticulous process to ensure a high-quality finish.

References

• “bodyshell”, in Lexico, Dictionary.com; Oxford University Press, 2019–2022.