An energy absorbing element, that may be used with, for example, vehicles such as automobiles and trucks, is described. The energy absorbing element (2, 2′) comprises, (a) at least two oppositely arranged metal sheets (7, 8) having a multiplicity of predetermined buckling points (11, 12 and 13) which enable each sheet (7, 8) to fold up along its longitudinal direction (x-direction); and (b) a plurality of connecting ribs (9) which interconnect the oppositely arranged metal sheets (7, 8), the connecting ribs (9) being fabricated from a plastic material selected from thermoplastic materials and/or thermosetting plastic materials. Also described is a bumper system which comprises a transverse beam and at least one of the energy absorbing elements of the present invention.