WHY USE MORE PLASTICS IN AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING
Did you know? Currently, plastics make up 50% of a car’s volume, accounting for 10% of its weight. As more automakers shift to using plastics and recycled plastics, ensure you understand the importance of using these materials in your vehicle designs.
Importance of Plastics and Recycled Plastics in Automotive Applications
In an effort to meet the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, automotive manufacturers are improving vehicle fuel mileage. Plastics and recycled plastics offer a solution to meeting these standards, benefiting the environment and lowering fuel costs.
Yet plastics and recycled plastics offer more than just weight and fuel reduction benefits. Using these materials in automotive designs also offers:
- Design innovation
- Flexibility with using different components
- Corrosion resistance
- Increased safety and comfort
Additionally, companies that are environmentally responsible continue to be at the forefront of consumer buying decisions. As a result, companies that incorporate plastics and recycled plastics into their automotive designs are likely to experience higher sales and greater consumer loyalty.
Key Applications for Plastics and Recycled Plastics
Plastics and recycled plastics have greatly changed automotive exteriors. Certain applications that use these new materials include:
- Door panels
- Front and rear bumpers
These new materials have enabled automotive manufacturers to lower production costs, improve energy management and create more aerodynamic exteriors.
Additionally, cars that use plastics and recycled plastics are not as susceptible to dents and dings as when manufactured with traditional counterparts.
Automotive interiors have also significantly benefited from plastics and recycled plastics. They help create durable, aesthetically pleasing components while reducing noise and vibration. Certain applications include:
- Instrument panels
- Headliners
- Armrests
- Load floors
The extent of plastics and recycled plastics in automotive manufacturing is likely to grow in upcoming years. Stay tuned for upcoming posts on plastics and recycled plastics in automotive manufacturing.
Bostik manufactures smart adhesives for exterior and interior automotive applications that use plastics. For more information on these products, call 800-7-BOSTIK, or visit www.bostik.com/us.
Want to stay up-to-date on industry information and Bostik news? Sign up for our newsletter!