A Profile of the Global Auto Industry

CHAPTER 8

CAFE Standards and Materials Competition

Regulation around the world is pushing the industry toward the twin goals of enhanced safety and lower CO₂ emissions (or equivalently, better fuel economy). It takes less energy to propel a lighter vehicle; using lower-weight materials—while preserving strength—is central to achieving those goals. The result is a materials competition between steel, aluminum, plastics, and more exotic materials such as carbon fiber composites. The 2014 Honda MDX improved on its predecessor in fuel economy, and was the first crossover to obtain a five-star rating on the small overlap crash test. A later section will detail that, but for now it suffices to note that its body uses 59 percent high-strength steel, ...