Crossword Genius

What may protect vehicle at high speed? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

carapace

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'what may protect' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'vehicle at high speed?' is the wordplay.
'vehicle' becomes 'car' (car is a kind of vehicle).
'at high speed?' becomes 'apace' (I've seen this before).
'car'+'apace'='CARAPACE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for carapace that I've seen before include "soft top? Hardly" , "Firm covering" , "Hard thick shell of some creatures" , "Crab's thick protective shield" , "Hard outer covering of some animals" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.