That is because there is no simpler way to boost fuel economy than by reducing vehicle weight, and boosting mileage is something all automakers need to do.
“There’s a very simple reason for it: CAFE,” said General Motors Co. spokesman Klaus-Peter Martin, referring to the U.S. government’s tough new fuel economy standards. “Every gram you can take out of the vehicle, it helps with fuel efficiency.”
The question now is this: Is there enough aluminum to go around?
In the near term, the answer is no.
Ford has locked up much of the supply of automotive-grade aluminum sheet for its new version of the F-150, slated to go on sale late this year. The F-150 has been the bestselling vehicle in America.
Via Steve Crandall.
Ford flexing supply chain muscle. Shades of Apple’s tactics.