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Advanced plastics pave the way for sustainability and fuel efficiency
Around the world the automotive industry is facing many challenges, not the least of which is a desire to produce more sustainable vehicles while improving fuel efficiency, safety, vehicle performance and driver comfort.
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Auto manufacturers are also seeking ways in which to meet current government regulations, which call for cars and light trucks to get 54.5 miles per gallon (MPG) by 2025. In order to meet these current standards, auto makers have turned to plastic parts, which are just as durable as other materials but are much lighter.
ExxonMobil supports the automotive industry’s response to changing market trends by providing a variety of advanced products that can help reduce weight and increase fuel efficiency. Our petroleum-based polymers are already used in vehicle braking systems, bumpers, paneling, weatherseals, automotive lubricants, fuel additives and even battery cases. We also employ tire technologies that help maintain optimal tire pressure. These innovative solutions not only increase miles per gallon but also reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve sustainability.
ExxonMobil Chemical: Advancing Automotive
To meet regulations, cars will be expected to contain an average of 350 kg, or 770 pounds, of plastics by 2020, an increase of 75 percent from the current amount being used (200 kg or 440 Ibs). In today’s cars, plastics represent nearly 50 percent of the volume of the vehicle but only account for 10 percent of the total weight. ExxonMobil continues to develop advanced plastics to meet auto industry standards and consumer expectations while mitigating environmental impact through emissions reduction.
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