Dec 08/23
A Guide to Automotive Sustainability in Vehicle Manufacturing
Automotive sustainability is a growing trend. Companies are finding innovative ways to reduce energy consumption and make greener parts without sacrificing quality.
Below is a guide to these automotive trends. Keep reading to find out how new practices and policies are making auto manufacturing greener.
Making More Sustainable Vehicles
One of the biggest ways that manufacturing has helped increase automotive sustainability is through the types of vehicles being made. This includes those with increased fuel efficiency.
Today, the average fuel economy for sedans, wagons, and SUVs is over 30 miles per gallon (mpg). In 1975, that average was between 10 and 15 mpg.
Electric vehicles have played a major role here, but they are only part of the story. One of the ways automakers have achieved this is by making vehicles lighter. The challenge is doing so without sacrificing safety.
The auto manufacturing industry has managed to make lighter parts that are safer and more durable in new car models. One of the ways they have done this is through advances in plastic injection molding.
This involves injecting molten plastic resin into a mold until it cools. It affords manufacturers a great deal of precision in designing and making parts as well as repeating the process over and over again.
On average, plastic parts weigh 50 less than their metal counterparts. They also can be just as strong and more resistant to damage, corrosion, and normal wear and tear than metal.
More Sustainable Manufacturing Processes
The other major area where the auto industry is becoming greener is through better efficiency in manufacturing processes. There are two areas where they have achieved this. One is through increased energy efficiency and the other by reusing products wherever possible.
Greater precision in planning through advances in technology, including automation helped limit energy waste. Making parts that can be recycled helps keep waste out of landfills.
This helps protect water and air resources. It also helps limit the need for burning additional fossil fuels.
Injection molding is another primary example of this. It is very efficient in general. Also, any excess plastic resin, including damaged or inaccurate parts, can be melted back down and reused again.
Learn More About Automotive Sustainability
Now that you understand how manufacturers are contributing to automotive sustainability, you can help do your part to protect the environment. Choosing companies that implement sustainable practices is good for the planet and for the automotive industry as a whole.
Mayco International is an automotive Tier 1 supplier with more than 7,000 employees working in 38 plants across the globe. Our goal is to leverage innovations in plastic injection molding and other processes to improve all aspects of interior and exterior automotive systems. Reach out to us today to learn more.