Français

Home > Explore the Uses of Plastics > Automotive

The automotive industry is always searching for higher strength, lightweight materials to easily manufacture for their vehicles. Plastics provide cost-effective solutions to many difficult automotive applications. New, high-tech, cheap, and durable plastics have found use in many new car models.


Plastics' lightweight, durable, and impact-resistant characteristics have resulted in uses in fenders, cargo boxes, body panels, lighting systems, trim, bumpers, and many other automotive parts. Its ability to withstand high temperatures means it is useful in engine compartments, while low-density, high-energy efficient structural foam, Strandfoam, is useful in car seats. The automobile industry has been able to reduce vehicle weight and production costs, as well as increase design, colour options, and recyclability of car parts. Reducing the weight of the vehicle has resulted in improved fuel economy to conserve petroleum and reduce car exhaust emissions. This helps our environment!

If you are interested in knowing more about a specific vehicle or model, detailed explanations of new applications, new materials being produced, and the major players in developing them, please visit the following web sites:

Canadian Plastics Sector Council | Copyright © 2008-2009 All Rights Reserved
200 Colonnade Road, Unit 1. Ottawa Ontario K2E 7M1
About Us | Contact Us | Credits