"Best practices for developing new applications

The use of composite materials in the automotive industry has become essential in a number of application areas where a return to metal materials seems highly unlikely (interior trim, exterior accessories, certain mechanical functions under the chassis and hood). On the other hand, for body and structural parts, there is still considerable potential for growth.

However, although engineers have gained knowledge of these materials, they still lack confidence in their use and application processes, and need to change the way they design vehicles.

The following "best practices" should be taken into account to enhance the development of new innovative applications in the automotive industry. They concern materials, parts manufacturing processes, assembly methods, parts and vehicle design, and applications.