This paper sets out the means to enable the manufacture of a fuel efficient passenger vehicle body from steel panels which will meet legislation for CAFE in North America, the proposed Carbon Tax in Europe together with the safety requirements in both continents. Equally, cognisance has been given to the customer in terms of performance with all the necessary freedom of design and styling.
This study has demonstrated that the weight of the BIW and Closures can be reduced by over 20 percent, utilising new manufacturing techniques and high strength steels.
Comparisons are then made with other available materials with regard to vehicle performance, corrosion protection, recycling issues, equivalent life cycle costs, legacy plant and equipment, safety, ease of repair and insurance and customer satisfaction to show that steel should be the preferred automotive material.