Technology & Steel Application - News

Posted on 17 Nov 2010

Advanced and Ultra High-Strength Steels Featured in Motor Trend's Car of the Year

Detroit
Nov 17, 2010

2011 Chevy Volt structure has over 70 percent advanced high-strength steel for efficiency and occupant protection

As the automotive industry recognizes the Chevy Volt plug-in electric vehicle as Motor Trend's Car of the Year, the Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI) is celebrating the record use of high-strength steel in the vehicle structure. Motor Trend called the Chevy Volt "some of the most advanced engineering ever seen in an American car," as it announced its selection yesterday on motortrend.com.

According to General Motors, the Volt combines advanced steels to help ensure crashworthiness and stiffness. With over 70 percent of its total structure made from high-strength steels, including advanced and ultra high-strength steels, the Volt's steel design provides occupants with added protection. In addition, the Volt features a pressurized steel fuel tank.

"The Chevy Volt utilizes lightweight, advanced high-strength steel technologies that complement its revolutionary steel design and add to its technical appeal as this year's Motor Trend Car of the Year," Ron Krupitzer, vice president, automotive applications for SMDI, said, "GM's innovative use of advanced steels has resulted in a vehicle that is affordable, safe, durable and energy efficient."

Motor Trend's Car of the Year is a week-long process that includes a number of performance, ride and handling, and driving tests. In addition, contenders are evaluated in the following areas: advancement in design; engineering excellence; efficiency; safety; value; and performance of intended function.

To learn more about the SMDI and advanced and ultra high-strength steel, visit autosteel.org.

The Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI), a business unit of the American Iron and Steel Institute, grows and maintains the use of steel through strategies that promote cost-effective solutions in the automotive, construction and container markets, as well as for new-growth opportunities in emerging steel markets.  

Steel Market Development Institute investors:

    AK Steel Corporation
    ArcelorMittal Dofasco
    ArcelorMittal USA
    Nucor Corporation
    Severstal North America Inc.
    SSAB Americas
    Steelscape, Inc.
    United States Steel Corporation
    USS-POSCO Industries