Search for Raw Material Savings in the Automotive Industry.

The purchase of raw materials by car makers accounts for only 10-15% of their manufacturing net costs. Therefore, raw material savings are not the prime concern of manufacturers in their efforts to reduce net costs in face of international competition. After citing the share of key raw materials, in terms of weight, in an average car, the authors focus on the interactions between raw material savings and such other problems as weight reduction, durability, pollution control measures, safety, new manufacturing methods, and net costs. Finally, steps to reduce the car's weight and the use of materials in short supply are discussed.