ALUMINIUM transforms sustainability

The rise of Electric Vehicles (EVS) has ushered in an era of sustainable materials in the automotive industry. Among these, aluminium stands out as a pivotal player, offering numerous benefits over traditional materials. We sat down with Bharat Gite, a prominent figure in the aluminium industry and a representative of Taural India, to discuss the Cover Story on how aluminium contributes to the sustainability of EVS, its role in shaping the future of the EV industry, and its impact on other sectors such as aerospace, defence, railways and renewable energy.

- Bharat Gite

Aluminium and sustainability

Aluminium is a lightweight material and plays a pivotal role in reducing the overall weight of Electric Vehicles (EVs), thereby improving their energy efficiency and extending their driving range. This lightweight characteristic also leads to lower energy consumption during the vehicle’s operation. Moreover, the use of aluminium in EVs causes a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across the entire life cycle of the vehicle, starting from its manufacturing to its end-of-life disposal. Calculations reveal that vehicles equipped with an aluminium body emit ~12.6 kg of fuel-related CO2 per 100 km, compared to the 13.5 kg emitted by vehicles with a steel body. Over time, these accumulated emissions savings can significantly contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of the automotive industry, aligning with our paramount objective of achieving net-zero goals for preserving our planet.

Aluminium boasts high recyclability, enabling the establishment of an efficient closed-loop recycling system. This approach reduces waste and helps minimise the need for continuous production of primary aluminium, further mitigating the environmental impact of the automotive sector. Thus, the strategic incorporation of aluminium in electric vehicles enhances energy efficiency and driving range and serves as a potent means of combating climate change. As we ardently pursue a sustainable and environmentally responsible future, harnessing the eco-friendly attributes of aluminium can pave the way for transformative change within the automotive industry and contribute to keeping the planet greener and healthier.