Steeling Hearts: Why Steel Remains a Key Player in Automotive Manufacturing
Discover why steel continues to dominate car manufacturing, its evolution in strength, recyclability, and its future prospects in the light of electric vehicles and sustainability.
Steeling Hearts: Why Steel Remains a Key Player in Automotive Manufacturing
Steel has been an essential component in car manufacturing for over a century, establishing its place firmly in the automotive industry. From the early days of the Ford Model T to the advanced vehicles of today, the role of steel has evolved but remains vital.
The Historical Significance of Steel in Cars
The Ford Model T revolutionized the industry in the 20th century and catalyzed the transition to steel as the primary material in car production. Despite emerging alternatives like aluminum and carbon fiber, steel's relevance shows no signs of diminishing. Aluminum and carbon fiber may have gained popularity for their lightweight properties, but steel continues to offer unparalleled strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Among many material choices in the automotive sector, steel stands out for its recyclability. As concerns about sustainability grow, the automotive industry faces new recycling targets that could secure steel's successful future.
Steel's Evolution and Modern Applications
Advances in Steel Strength
According to George Coates, the technical director at World Auto Steel, steel has adapted dramatically over the years. He notes, “Just 35 years ago, the most common automotive materials had strength levels of around 300 megapascals (MPa). Today, we have applications reaching 1900 MPa.” This significant increase in strength demonstrates the material's evolution, making it even more suitable for modern cars.
Stronger, ultra-high-tensile steels allow manufacturers to maintain the critical safety benefits of steel—its performance in crash tests—while simultaneously reducing weight. This is particularly crucial in the era of electrification, where many models are increasing in weight due to battery requirements.
Steel E-Motive: A New Approach
World Auto Steel has partnered with Ricardo in an innovative initiative named Steel E-Motive. This project explores the use of advanced high-tensile products, aiming to influence automakers towards the advantages of high-strength steel. The partnership exemplifies how collaboration can unlock new opportunities in automotive design and manufacturing.
Steel Versus Alternative Materials
While aluminum and carbon fiber have their advantages, they don't always provide a cost-effective solution. Steel excels at offering the essential durability needed in automotive applications. Coates explains,