That was one of my first thoughts but the head of the bolt doesn't engage or touch the grey panel. It's not even close and doesn't protrude out to level with the side of the tank with the grey pod removed. Even if the pod is stoved in I doubt it would absorb much impact.
Having said that I haven't tested the theory in a real crash so maybee anyone can confirm in a real life low side do the bolts offer any help or support ??