[Ferro-Alloys.com] Reuters reported that engineers and scientists at General Motors Co believe they are making major strides toward lighter vehicles by developing a way to expand the use of magnesium in auto parts. GM is starting using magnesium from sheet metal to make inner panels of doors and trunk lids.

 

Mr Jon Carter GM metals researcher said that making auto parts from magnesium sheets by heating the lightweight metal so it can be formed into precise, rigid shapes will help GM and other automakers meet demanding US fuel economy requirements. Mr Carter said that "Magnesium will allow us to reduce the weight of certain sheet metal panels and thereby improve fuel efficiency and handling and overall performance."

 

GM will make about 50 vehicles, which will be sold to consumers, using the magnesium sheet process in the fourth quarter, but Carter would not indicate which model or models will be involved.