Research and Markets: Weight Reduction in Automotive Design & Manufacturing

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/4224qd/weight_reduction_i) has announced the addition of the "Weight Reduction in Automotive Design & Manufacturing" report to their offering.

“Weight Reduction in Automotive Design & Manufacturing”

OEMs today often assess the CO2 benefits of material changes based on whole vehicle life-cycle measurements and with an increasing concentration on secondary weight saving they are determined to break out of the increasing weight spiral in which they have found themselves for the past three decades, where improved performance requirements have led to larger engines, increased cooling and braking system size and weight, higher demands on vehicle structures, increased emissions control and after-treatment and thus increased CO2 output.

Today they are doggedly pursuing a virtuous cycle where lightweight body structures, right size power-train and chassis, downsized power plant with enhanced performance and electrification delivers improved CO2 performance. Critical to making this change is the role of lighter materials. This transition, according by a US study carried out by UC Davis for the California Air Resources Board (CARB) is actually made more difficult by the widespread introduction of hybrid vehicles, which have an average weight increase of 9% over their non-hybrid counterparts, pointing to the enhanced importance of light-weighting measures as vehicle electrification strategies progress.

About this report

This second edition report looks at policy initiatives, weight saving methods, competition between OEMs, barriers, drivers and government regulation. Fuel economy & CO2 emissions are detailed for the US, EU, Japan, South Korea & China. Vehicle safety & cost implications are also considered along with weight reduction by sector (body structure, chassis, power-train and interior).

The report also includes a detailed section on materials technology and examines the use of advanced steel, aluminium, magnesium, titanium, carbon fibre, plastics, bio-materials and textiles. Recycling and joining technology are also considered.

Key Topics Covered: