Alcoa Continues to Strengthen Solutions to Meet CO2 and Fuel Economy Standards
While manufacturers globally approach efficiency and environmental issues differently, the goal is always for efficiency and sustainability. Through legislation, North American auto manufacturers are regulated by fuel economy (MPG) while European auto manufacturers are limited by vehicle emissions (CO
2). Different approaches to the same goal of preserving our climate, extending our natural resources and providing vehicles that are as efficient as possible. This month, the focus will be on how CO
2 emission regulations are impacting European auto manufacturers.
In 1996, the average of CO
2 emissions for new cars stood at 186g/km. In 2006, that number only reduced to around 160g/km, despite significant developments in engine technologies and other efficiency efforts. This limited gain is largely countered by the increasing weight of cars.
Automotive manufacturers have voiced serious concerns regarding the target of 130g/km in 2012. Proposed fines for missing targets will hinder those who are less competitive on CO
2 performance. Large fines on manufacturers, and passed to the consumer, could radically change vehicle purchasing patterns. Achieving these targets may become one of the largest challenges faced by the auto industry.
The chart below illustrates the gap by which all manufacturers currently miss the 2012 EU CO
2 targets of 130g/km.
Click to enlarge
Some manufacturers are closer to the average target than others, but all suffer the same symptom – excessive weight. The
European Federation for Transport and Environment (T&E) recently stated, “CO
2 emissions are directly related to the weight of the vehicle.” The article suggested, “(auto manufacturers) should focus on making cars leaner and more fuel efficient.”
Alcoa provides many OEM wheel programs that optimize wheel weight and meet vehicle targets. As a rule of thumb, every 100 pounds of mass reduction improves fuel economy by 1.5%. An Alcoa forged aluminum wheel can often save 20kg (44 lbs) per vehicle, although weight savings of 39.5kg (87 lbs) have been achieved, compared to an equivalent cast wheel. This magnitude of weight saving is rarely attainable from other single vehicle components and would usually require extensive capital investment with lengthy development periods. Weight savings from forged wheels are bolt-on improvements with likely zero manufacturing changes.
The effect of losing 20kg in the wheels alone is significant. In isolation, this would help to reduce carbon emissions by
over half a ton in a car’s lifetime. In addition, light weight wheels not only have a linear effect on reducing emissions and fuel consumption but can further improve efficiency from the lower rotary inertia of the wheels. As the energy used to accelerate and decelerate the wheel mass is reduced, less mass is required in adjacent, un-sprung components such as brakes, steering and suspension. Lowering overall un-sprung weight compounds the results of less fuel consumption and greater reduction of CO
2 emissions.
Alcoa is always looking for new solutions to reduce wheel weight for increased vehicle economy and lowered emissions. Whether working to meet the regulations for fuel economy in North America and Asia, or regulations for emissions in Europe, the Alcoa Wheels team can draw on vast experience and category knowledge to provide optimal wheel programs. Contact your Alcoa Wheels Account Manager to learn the latest on our advancements in wheel design, alloys, manufacturing and testing.
“It was clear that Audi required a new wheel solution that is durable while retaining a high quality, innovative finish,” explains Mike Parnell, Vice President and General Manager – Alcoa Auto Wheels. “By staying cleaner longer, Dura-Bright® technology wheels enhance a vehicle’s appearance allowing Audi A6 owners to enjoy their vehicle while lowering maintenance efforts.”
“We are proud to work with Audi to provide our eighteen-inch wheel with Dura-Bright® technology for the new A6 offering easy to clean maintenance benefits coupled with the strength and light weight advantages of a forged aluminum wheel for improved driving dynamics,” concludes Parnell.
Here’s an excerpt from the article:
Carlson covered what’s new at Alcoa Wheels, including launch of full size truck wheels into the aftermarket featuring, easy to clean Dura-Bright® technology and the new Alcoa Retro wheel for commercial vehicle applications. The six minute segment concluded with how the company works with OEM customers to develop wheel solutions that optimize vehicle performance, safety and fuel economy.
