Review of Plastics Application Within BL Cars

The growing amount of plastic used in todays European vehicle is reviewed with particular reference to polymeric components in the BL Cars range of products. The reasons for the increased usage are considered, specific applications to bumper, crash pads and external trim components are referred to, together with the limitations which have prevented plastics being adopted in body panel and structural applications. A project to produce a polyurethane Mini is described. The affects of the energy crisis on the design and materials used on tomorrows car are assessed and the future potential for plastics in view of the manufacturers key objective to reduce total vehicle ownership costs discussed.