Ultra Light Steel used in car construction. Roll over the image to see the steel frame. (Source ULSAB-AVC) |
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Steel has been used for many years in car production. It performs consistently and can absorb the forces generated in a crash. A consortium of steelmakers, including the UK,s Corus group, have developed a concept car that uses new steel technologies. Ultra light steel (ULS) promises cars that can be 25% lighter but still strong and safe. The body of a medium-sized hatch back would be just over 200kg. It is stronger so their will be less noise and vibration. Being lighter is also good for the environment. Petrol consumption is reduced and so are the emissions. |
Ultra light steel advanced car concept.
(Source ULSAB-AVC)
New technologies
The ultra light car uses advanced higher strength steels which are stronger than conventional steel but can be formed into complex structures more easily.
Laser welding techniques mean the car can be made strong and light. In a rollover test, the roof can withstand more than two and a half times the car's weight.
Less parts mean manufacturing costs are also reduced by around 15%.
Motorsports need even lighter cars that can survive impacts of over
200mph. Space-age composite materials are the answer.
Click for composites in racing.