Lightweighting

Lightweighting is a concept in the auto industry about building cars and trucks that are less heavy as a way to achieve better fuel efficiency, battery range, acceleration, braking and handling.

[1][2] In addition, lighter vehicles can tow and haul larger loads because the engine is not carrying unnecessary weight.

[3] Excessive vehicle weight is also a contributing factor to particulate emissions from tyre and brake wear.

"[7] Using lightweight materials such as plastics, high strength steels and aluminium can mean less strain on the engine and better gas mileage as well as improved handling.

[10] Incorporating aluminum has grown continuously to not only meet CAFE standards but to also improve automotive performance.

Lightweight materials such as carbon fiber are increasingly being used in cars and trucks to decrease weight while preserving strength, as shown here in this car bumper, as an example of Lightweighting .
Illustration of light-weighting materials choices in car body