Year upon year, the automotive industry sees new designs, features and technologies implemented across a dynamic range of automobiles. One aspect of the evolving nature of the industry has been around for 200 years, and that is the metal aluminium. With its unique blend of properties, aluminium for automotive uses is driving innovation, improving efficiency and supporting sustainability. Automotive manufacturers and car enthusiasts are looking to stockists and suppliers, like Aluminium Online, to support these benefits, and in this article, we’ll present six reasons why aluminium is revolutionising automotive manufacturing.
6 Reasons Why Aluminium for Cars Makes Sense
1. Lightweight Properties
You don’t hear the top dogs of the automotive industry boasting about how heavy their new sports car is, or how the latest four-by-four is now over three and a half tonnes instead of under two. That’s because they’re saving ample weight with aluminium. By reducing vehicle weight with aluminium, drivers can save on fuel, benefit from improved acceleration and, in turn, lowered emissions. Compared to steel, aluminium for cars weighs up to 45% less which is incentive enough for manufacturers to use as much as possible. Lightweight, aluminium rich cars are also safer thanks to quicker stopping times and enhanced shock absorption.
2. Durability and Strength
Following on from the benefit of enhanced shock absorption, aluminium for the automotive industry helps build vehicles ripe with durability and strength. A car’s front bumper featuring aluminium alloys – which are a mix of aluminium and other metals like zinc and copper – can withstand high impacts. This means many automotive manufacturers are building many structural components like chassis and crash-management systems from the metal.
3. Corrosion Resistance
Just when you thought the metal couldn’t get any better, aluminium naturally forms a protective oxide layer, making it resistant to rust and corrosion, which can significantly diminish the value of a vehicle when owners are looking to sell. With further protective finishes, aluminium is ideal for vehicle components that are susceptible to moisture and humidity which lead to corrosion, such as regions with harsh weather conditions. This high level of resistance also reduces long-term maintenance costs and improves reliability, benefiting drivers’ finances and business’ reputations.
4. Sustainability
Recycling is a key aspect of everyday life, and aluminium is one of the most recyclable materials on the planet. From cans of pop to vehicle parts, the metal saves more than 90% of energy required to make new aluminium components. Automakers committed to reducing their environmental impact have followed through by utilising aluminium as much as possible and recycling discontinued aluminium parts and vehicles to craft into new, innovative features. With the popularity of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in today’s world, utilising aluminium’s inherent sustainability is a perfect pairing for eco-friendly businesses.
5. Innovative Design Possibilities
Aluminium is extremely versatile and allows for the creation of complex and innovative designs. It can be shaped and fabricated into intricate forms without losing strength, enabling manufacturers to explore aerodynamic enhancements, unique aesthetics and advanced functionalities.
EV and Aluminium
EVs benefit greatly from aluminium’s properties. Lightweight aluminium for car structures extends battery life and driving range, while its strength supports the design of safe, energy-efficient electric vehicles. Thanks to aluminium’s thermal conductivity, it also helps manage the thermal conditions of battery performance.
Future Potential of Aluminium in the Automotive Industry
Demand for sustainable transportation is growing at a rapid rate. Aluminium, while already widely utilised, will play an even greater role in future automotive innovation. With the global shift toward EVs and the phasing out of petrol and diesel vehicles, aluminium’s lightweight and recyclable nature will continue to drive advancements in vehicle design, performance and sustainability.
One in seven new cars on the road is now electrically powered, equating to around 10.6 million sales globally in 2024. By 2030, this number is predicted to jump to 40 million, meaning the demand for aluminium for the automotive industry is set to skyrocket.
Conclusion
Aluminium has cemented its place as a key material in automotive innovation. From improving performance and safety to supporting manufacturers’ and drivers’ sustainability goals, its unique properties make it indispensable for modern vehicles. As the industry moves forward, aluminium for cars will remain a cornerstone of progress.
Aluminium for Automotive Innovation: FAQs
What is aluminium used for in the automotive industry?
Body panels, engine components, wheels, suspension systems and chassis parts are all examples of what aluminium is used for in the automotive industry. This list is not exhaustive as aluminium can be fabricated into all manner of complex components and parts for vehicles.
Why is aluminium good for car parts?
Aluminium for car parts provides many benefits thanks to its combination of lightweight properties, high durability, resistance to corrosion and its flexibility in producing different complex parts. These attributes help reduce emissions, enhance fuel efficiency and prolong the lifespan of vehicles.
