Energy absorbing composite tube

An energy absorbing composite tube (10) for both mounting an impact member to a structure and absorbing impact energy. The composite tube (10) includes a mounting portion (16) that is inserted into a sleeve (14) within the structure. A main tubular body portion (26) is provided that is integral with the mounting portion (16). The main tubular body portion (26) has a larger diameter than the mounting portion (16) to provide an impact shoulder (30). A delamination wedge (32) is forced against the shoulder (30) during an impact to cause delamination of the main tubular body portion (26). The delamination process absorbs energy from the impact. The mounting portion (16) slides within the mounting sleeve (14) during the impact so that it remains intact and provides a structural connection between the main tubular body portion (26) and the impact member. The energy absorbing composite tube (10) may be used to replace bumper mounting systems which utilize metallic tubes as part of the bumper mounting/energy absorption system.