Automotive Applications

Composite materials can be used in a number of applications within the transportation market -- from exterior door panels, radiators and ignition components on passenger vehicles, to the side panels on light- and heavy duty trucks. The benefits of using composites include greater fuel efficiency, corrosion resistance, low weight and high strength. Composites also provide a low-cost way to help keep designs looking fresh. On passenger vehicles, light trucks and buses, composite parts are usually classified in four categories:

Body Panels

(Examples are very numerous: bodyworks, spoilers, door panels, hoods, hatchbacks, roof panels, bonnets, wing mirrors, rear light units, brake linings, ignition components.)

Internal Parts and Trim

(They are used to mould interior components for buses, seat squabs and bases, car door liners, back panel of seats, parcel shelves…)

Structural and Semi-Structural Parts

Parts often have a high-glass content: front-end panels, floor, engine block, bumper beams, leaf springs, spare wheels and covers, fuel tank supports. These also include heat-resistant under-bonnet parts: inlet manifold, cooling modules, oil pan.

Railway and Bus Equipment

(body work, cabs and internal components) and also large panels for trucks, trailers and containers.