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Progress Through Partnership Engineering Thermoplastics and the Auto Industry
Technical Paper
891219
Sector:
Language:
English
Abstract
The adoption of engineering thermoplastics is rapidly expanding
in the worlds automotive industry. All thermoplastic bumper
systems, instrument panels and fascias have become the industry
norm. The paper outlines how in partnership the use of engineering
thermoplastics will provide the answer to lower volume model
differentiation and how they are particularly suitable for newly
emerging manufacturers with limited capital availability.
The paper details with the aid of the "Vector" concept
car program how engineering thermoplastics can provide an economic
alternative to traditional body building materials. Emphasis is
placed on systems for exterior body cladding and the liftgate. The
Vector vehicle is designed to accept thermo-plastic body
componentry without major revision to existing production lines or
production practices.
The commercial adoption of such parts is discussed and the
industrialization of the vehicle detailed.