Evolving link between lightweighting, safety and fuel economy

During Fuel Economy Detroit by Automotive Megatrends, experts discussed several different avenues to improve the fuel economy of passenger vehicles. The continued development of the powertrain was central to discussion, with predictions for further improvement of the internal combustion engine (ICE), which in turn lead to a debate regarding CAFE standards.

Another key theme was vehicle lightweighting, and several speakers highlighted various material and joining solutions that could be vital as OEMs prepare to meet future standards. According to Bill Burnham, Business Development Manager at DSM, there is a large range of “all new technologies being introduced into cars today, causing a really impressive rate of change in the industry. Material solutions are being viewed as a very important means to reach fuel economy targets.”