Automakers are racing to introduce green technologies. Toyota is the leader in hybrid sales and plans to introduce two new models even though it will continue to lose money in the short and medium term. Instead of trying to outsell Toyota, GM has introduced flexible-fuel vehicles that run on E-85, an ethanol and gasoline mix.

The root cause of splitting problems in deep-drawn parts often is that the process is not designed and engineered to accept the full range of mechanical properties within the ASTM specifications.

Control of engineering changes for automotive components and assemblies requires cooperation and communication among groups within a company, as well as with outside suppliers. Changes must be initiated, communicated, implemented, and verified enterprisewide.

A die transport system may be needed if current production requirements cannot be met with existing presses, and opportunities for additional contracts are limited by current equipment production volumes; parts can be produced competitively in large batches, but not if the part count is smaller; and shop safety needs to be improved.

Increasing sheet metal component rigidity while reducing weight can be achieved by substituting steel with aluminum, magnesium, or titanium alloys; advanced high-strength steel (AHSS); or 3-D structured sheet metal.

Increasing sheet metal component rigidity while reducing weight can be achieved by substituting steel with aluminum, magnesium, or titanium alloys; advanced high-strength steel (AHSS); or 3-D structured sheet metal.