Is Aluminum The Future?

If you don’t already own a vehicle made out of aluminum, there’s a good chance you will at some point during your lifetime. Most people don’t know that aluminum was first used in the production of automobiles over 100 years ago, back in 1899. It was not the go-to for many reasons, but that has changed. In 2015 Ford introduced its all-aluminum-body F150 and that was a game-changer. That shed 700 pounds from the truck body, but it also increased gas mileage.

When we start talking aluminum, it’s not just about weight reduction. There are many other benefits of using aluminum vs. steel. The main push toward using aluminum has mostly to do with the demands to increase gas mileage at every possible turn. Engines are smaller, yet can produce the same if not greater power, all the while decreasing fuel consumption. Here are a few of the main benefits of using aluminum in the -industry:

Safer: they are at least as strong, if not stronger, than steel; aluminum can absorb twice the crash energy than steel; because they weigh less, they handle better.

Environmental impacts: because they are lighter, they get better gas mileage; increased gas mileage; nearly 90% of the aluminum on a car can be recycled.

Performance: quicker acceleration, better overall handling, can stop faster, and can haul or tow more.

There’s been a push that’s been a long time coming to move away from steel and other materials that aren’t as kind to the earth. By the year 2025 in the US, fleet vehicles will be required to get an MPG of 54.5. You can count on them being made out of aluminum! It’s what the general public wants too, and the auto-making industry is absolutely responding. What’s not to love? The sheer fact that aluminum is easily recycled makes it a no-brainer.

When it comes to repairing an aluminum auto body, it is indeed trickier than steel. It requires special equipment, a lot of heat, and significantly more time to perform the repairs. The good news for anyone owning an aluminum vehicle in the Grand Rapids area is that Pro Am Collision & Mechanical has invested in the technology, training, and equipment to be able to properly care for your aluminum auto body repair needs. We recognize the wave of the future and work hard to always be able to care for our customers. When you are need of experts to handle your aluminum dent pulling and frame repair needs, turn to the team at Pro Am Collision & Mechanical. Make your appointment today! See you soon!