A review of the feasibility of aluminum alloys, carbon fiber composites and glass fiber composites for vehicle weight reduction in the automotive industry

Abstract

Abstract Improving fuel efficiency is an important goal of the automotive industry. The most effective way to improve fuel efficiency is to reduce the weight of the vehicle, which could be achieved by replacing components made from traditional materials with lightweight materials. This article reviews the research and use of lightweight materials, aluminum alloys, carbon fiber composites, and glass fiber composites in the automotive industry. A review of the current literature considers the mechanical properties, processability, safety properties, price, and manufacturing methods of these three materials to discuss the possibility of reducing vehicle weight and thus improving fuel efficiency.