Magnesium for Future Autos

Magnesium is the lightest structural metal, yet its high strength-to-weight ratio makes it more attractive than steel in many applications. The world's automakers already use magnesium for individual components. However, new alloys and processing methods are needed before it can become economically and technologically feasible as a major automotive structural material. This article explores the initial results of an international collaboration that is leveraging the expertise and resources of Canada, China, and the United States. Called the Magnesium Front End Research and Development (MFERD) project, its goal is to advance the manufacture of magnesium-intensive vehicles.