GM claims 'breakthrough' will make vehicles lighter, help gas mileage

By Nathan Bomey
Detroit Free Press Business Writer
September 24, 2012

General Motors plans to accelerate the replacement of steel with aluminum after researchers achieved what the company described as a “breakthrough” in welding technology.

GM hopes the technological advancement will boost fuel economy by making its vehicles lighter. Aluminum is lighter than steel, making it an enticing alternative when it is not too expensive. But several hurdles remain for aluminum, including production challenges.

GM believes it has solved one of those challenges: the frustrating process of welding aluminum body panels.

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