The search for ultra-light, super-strong automotive material
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Indian labs are working on steel and beyond that can make cars fuel-efficent and safer for passengers
As automobile companies are always fishing for stronger and lighter materials to make vehicles, exciting research is happening in this area. India is no laggard here, going by indications from its labs.
Few realise how advancements in material science have contributed to the affordability and comfort levels of modern automobiles. For instance, the growing use of ultra high-strength steel (UHSS) and advance high-strength steel (AHSS) has made Maruti’s third-generation Swift (New Swift) lighter than the first generation by 125 kg (New Swift weighs 855 kg).