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Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! Buckle up and get ready for a wild ride through the world of aluminium and its surging usage in the automotive industry. It’s Rina Meng here, your go-to gal for all things aluminium profiles, and today we’re diving headfirst into the electrifying world of cars and how they’re embracing the lightweight wonders of aluminium.
Picture this: you’re cruising down the highway, wind in your hair, and a smile on your face. But have you ever wondered what’s under the hood of your trusty steed? Well, my friend, chances are there’s a whole lot of aluminium making your ride smoother and more efficient than ever before.
According to a study, the automotive industry is experiencing a radical shift towards electrification and lightweighting. This shift has led to a significant increase in the usage of aluminium, and boy, oh boy, is it making a difference! Electric vehicles (EVs), in particular, are driving this aluminium revolution, with an average of 283 kg of aluminium in a European-produced battery electric vehicle (BEV) in 2022. In comparison, your average petrol or diesel ICE-only car weighs in at a mere 169 kg of aluminium. Talk about a weight difference!
But wait, there’s more! The aluminium content in EVs is expected to increase even further, by a whopping 9.5%, reaching an impressive 310 kg between 2022 and 2026. That’s like adding an extra boost of awesomeness to your ride! So, why the sudden surge in aluminium usage, you ask? Well, my curious friend, it’s all thanks to the incredible properties of this fantastic metal.
Aluminium is playing a crucial role in various components of electric vehicles. From e-drive housing to battery pack housings, ballistic battery protection, and cooling plates, aluminium is the unsung hero that keeps your EV running smoothly. And it doesn’t stop there! Aluminium also plays a vital role in the infrastructure of electromobility, including power cables and charging stations. It’s like the secret sauce that keeps the whole electric ecosystem buzzing with energy!
One of the remarkable things about aluminium is its recyclability. It’s like the gift that keeps on giving! Even after your beloved car reaches its end of life, the aluminium in it can be recycled and used again and again. It’s like a never-ending cycle of sustainability, reducing waste, and making Mother Earth do a happy dance.
Now, let’s hear it from the experts! Hélène Wagnies, the Principal at Ducker Carlisle, emphasizes the crucial role of aluminium in lightweighting. With the electrification of powertrains gaining momentum, the need for lightweight materials to offset the weight of those hefty batteries has skyrocketed. And guess who’s there to save the day? You got it—aluminium! It’s like a superhero cape made of metal, swooping in to save the day and make our cars lighter, more efficient, and greener than ever before.
But it doesn’t end with EV-specific components. Large and mega castings in the body structure of cars are also contributing to the increased usage of aluminium. These castings not only enhance the overall strength and safety of the vehicle but also add a touch of aluminium intensity that makes car manufacturers jump for joy.
With the European Union’s ambitious target of a 55% reduction in CO2 emissions for cars by 2030, aluminium is becoming a critical ingredient in the material mix for car makers. It comes in various forms, from extrusions to sheets, castings, and even forgings. It’s like a versatile chameleon, adapting to the needs of the automotive industry and helping car makers achieve their sustainability goals. Aluminium is the MVP of the automotive world, and it’s here to stay!
But, my friends, we can’t ignore the challenges that come with this aluminium revolution. The growing demand for aluminium means that we need to ensure a reliable and sustainable supply. Florian Stadler, the Managing Director of AMAG rolling and Chair of European Aluminium’s Automotive & Transport Board, highlights the need for EU policymakers to step up and provide support measures for the European aluminium industry. It’s time to tackle the ongoing energy crisis and level the global playing field. We need to ensure that sustainable aluminium, with a low CO2 footprint, is readily available to car manufacturers. Let’s work together to reduce our dependence on imports, create jobs in Europe, and drive towards a cleaner and greener future!
Overall, the surge in aluminium usage in cars is a thrilling development in the automotive industry. It’s like a breath of fresh air, bringing lightweighting and electrification together in perfect harmony. Aluminium is the unsung hero, silently working its magic to make our rides smoother, more efficient, and eco-friendly. So next time you hop into your car, take a moment to appreciate the aluminium that’s keeping you on the road. It’s truly a metal marvel!
Thank you for joining me on this aluminium adventure, my fellow car aficionados. Remember, embrace the aluminium revolution, drive towards a greener future, and always keep a smile on your face. Until next time, stay aluminium awesome!
