Cars require a variety of raw materials for their production, including aluminium, iron (for steel), and various other petroleum products used in the manufacturing of rubber, plastics, and special fibers.
These raw materials are mined by an individual production company, turning them into auto manufacturing components, which are then sold directly to auto manufacturers or auto part suppliers.
1. Steel
Made from mined iron ore, steel is probably the most widely used material in the auto manufacturing industry.
This material accounts for around 80% of the weight of an average car. It is used to manufacture a vehicle’s body and chassis, including the body, roof, door panels, private number plates, and many more.
Steel is also used in the manufacturing of exhaust pipes and mufflers. Technological advancements over the years have allowed auto manufacturers to utilize several types of steel with varying degrees of rigidity.
2. Plastic
This is one of the most commonly used materials in the automobile manufacturing industry primarily because of its flexibility and durability.
Today’s cars use a tremendous amount of plastic starting from their dashboard, to the dials, gauges, personalized registrations, and even switches. Even their airbags and seat belts are made from some sort of modern plastic.
3. Rubber
Rubber is an essential material for cars.
In addition to tyres, rubber is also used for making numerous hoses, belts, and seals that play a crucial role in the functioning of a car engine.
Like plastic, rubber is durable and can be easily molded into various shapes as per requirement. The demand for rubber in the auto industry accounts for around 80% of the world’s total rubber production.
4. Aluminium
Even though aluminium is relatively new in the auto manufacturing world, it is become increasingly popular because of its lightweight nature.
The material is used for creating body panels of lighter and more performance-oriented vehicles like the Audi R8 and the Acura NSX.
Compared to plastic and rubber, it is not as durable, but when it comes to performance, it guarantees a big boost.
5. Glass
Last but never the least, let’s never forget glass.
It is one of the most unsung heroes of the auto manufacturing industry. Without this component, it would be simply impossible for us to see the surroundings during the operation of our vehicles.
You will also find it, being heavily used in the navigation screens of recent car models.
For more information on the number of materials used in the auto manufacturing industry, refer to the infographic below.
[Infographic created by Plates4Less]
5 Comments
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Lex Reyes
July 2, 2018 at 7:17 am
Steel manufacturing for cars are not like what they used to before, car frames are much thinner nowadays unlike before.
Ganiyu Sodiq
July 26, 2018 at 1:22 pm
Steel mining business must be a very lucrative one because of the number of industries that use it. You talk about the automobile, construction and many more.
Portella
November 26, 2018 at 2:30 pm
Thanks for sharing! I had no idea that steel accounts for around 80% of the weight of a car. However, as it was mentioned above, the situation may be different with modern ones.
Richard L Parez
December 8, 2018 at 2:18 pm
I haven’t more idea about car making material. I knew only still or Aluminium is used but you brief more. Thanks for sharing. Keep sharing such as great idea more.
Lissa
December 29, 2018 at 10:13 am
You brief about the common material of build a car with the help of Steel, Plastic, Rubber, Aluminum and Glass. Its a very good explanation because everything is clear from Steps. Thanks