Market Share of Europe Automotive Lightweight Car Industry
The Europe lightweight car market is moderately consolidated with existing players such as Volkswagen, Nissan Corporation, Toyota, Hyundai, and other key OEMs operating in the European market. As the demand for lightweight cars is growing in the region, while some key automotive manufacturers are trying to edge over their competitors by making joint ventures, partnerships, and launching new products with advanced technology, other raw material, and component suppliers are focusing on improving their product offerings. For instance,
- In July 2022, Gestamp announced that Arcelor Mittal and Gestamp have successfully trialed the use of low-carbon emissions steel for car parts that will ultimately be used in the production of vehicles in Europe. They have signed an agreement to cooperate on sustainability, specifically in the production of low-carbon emissions steel parts, and are working closely to ensure that ArcelorMittal's steel meets all Gestamp's technical requirements.
- In May 2021, The all-new Qashqai Nissan's first model built in Europe using a significant number of lightweight aluminum panels has been launched into the market. The hood, doors and front fenders are stamped from aluminum alloy, which makes the body of the all-new Qashqai 60 kg lighter. This improves efficiency and thereby contributes to reduced emissions. In addition, it helps accommodate more technology, including the all-new vehicle's electrified powertrain.
- In June 2021, Porsche announced that a new generation of the 911 GTS model is being launched into the market. The driving dynamics of the model are further improved with the Lightweight Design package, which will be available for the first time for the GTS from November 2021. Up to 25 kg will be saved by the lighter carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) full bucket seats, lightweight glass for the side and rear windows, and lightweight battery.
- In May 2021, Toray Industries, Inc. announced that it has developed a high thermal conductivity technology for carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP). A thermally conductive layer composed of a porous CFRP support and graphite sheets is stacked on CFRP to achieve both lightweight and high thermal conductivity. Toray intends to promote the new technology for applications including battery parts of electric vehicles (EV), advanced mobility, and electronic devices.
Europe Automotive Lightweight Car Market Leaders
Nissan Motor Corporation
Toyota Motor Corporation
Ford Motor Company Ltd.
Porsche AG.
Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
