The US Department of Energy (DOE) has launched seven new projects to develop stronger and lighter materials for the next generation of American-made cars and trucks.
The projects include the development and validation of modeling tools to deliver higher performing carbon fiber composites and advanced steels, as well as research into new lightweight, high-strength alloys for energy-efficient vehicle and truck engines.
The new investments features two areas that include improving carbon fiber composites and advanced steel through computational design as well as advanced alloy development for automotive and heavy-duty engines.
US Energy Secretary Steven Chu said, "With strong, lightweight materials we have an opportunity to dramatically increase vehicle fuel economy, while helping America maintain its competitive edge in automotive design and manufacturing."
The projects will help provide additional technologies for manufacturers to improve vehicle fuel efficiency beyond the regulated levels.
