Shedding Pounds on the Road

In America, everything is big. In comparison to most European countries, our cars are on average significantly larger. Despite the size differences, as a whole, cars around the world are getting significantly heavier. This has many negative consequences. 


There are many factors that contribute to the increasing weight. First, people in America are getting bigger. As a result, they want larger cars, so they will feel more comfortable. Automakers increase the dimensions of their vehicles which naturally adds weight. This pushes many models, when they are redesigned, into the next size category. Another reason for the weight increase is due to all of the new technology being added. Some of this technology is for vehicle safety. The other tech is for consumer use. Lastly, heavier metals are less expensive to produce then lighter metals. 


While more space and technology does not seem bad, the effects are seen on the scale. A heavier car will not perform as well as it could with less weight. To combat the extra weight, more power is needed which is often achieved by adding displacement or turbos, both of which further add weight. Additionally, cars that feel "heavier" often will not handle as well. As a result, many expensive and complicated performance enhancing options are often added to counteract the excess weight. In most cases, heavier cars do not feel as pure and nimble as one with less weight. Finally, heavier cars suffer in efficiency. The engine must work harder to haul around all of the extra weight. 


Reducing weight from their models should be a priority for all automakers. While not every vehicle is priced appropriately to use carbon fiber or other exotic weight saving materials, if automakers invest together in research, this could be a possible long term option. Right now, automakers should focus on making their chassis stiffer. If used correctly, high strength steel could make a platform stronger and safer, thus allowing automakers to remove weight elsewhere. In turn, they could potentially be able to replace non crucial areas with aluminum. Also, removing weight from individual components is possible. While this does require an investment from both consumers and automakers, the payoffs from lighter cars will be significant.