Over the past 15 years, cars have not become lighter, but are rather some 30% heavier. Plastics are helping to shed weight without compromising the safety and comfort features mainly responsible for the upward weight spiral.
However, the biggest challenge is to meet new emissions regulations; the primary driver in vehicle weight reduction, even after lower fluctuating global fuel prices led by the U.S. shale gas revolution.
Cost efficient, overall plastic manufacturing solutions can help to consolidate parts and reduce the number and scope of processing steps while reducing weight of the finished component or system.
This article revolves around the factors that can play an important role in achieving auto lightweighting goals. It would also talk about the key plastic materials, process technologies, and applications.