Hola

SWOT Analysis Concerning the Use of Nanomaterials in the Automotive Sector

funded by the European Commission

TABLE OF CONTENT

I.

Introduction ........................................................................................................ 3
I.1. I.2. Objectives of the SWOT analysis......................................................................... 3 Overview on theautomotive sector ..................................................................... 4

II.
II.1. II.2. II.3. II.4. II.5. II.6. II.7.

SWOT analysis on the automotive sector .................................................... 6
Frames and body .................................................................................................. 6 Engines andpowertrain........................................................................................ 7 Paints and coatings .............................................................................................. 8 Lubrication ............................................................................................................ 9 Suspension and breakingsystems.....................................................................10 Tires ......................................................................................................................11 Electric and electronic equipment ......................................................................12

III. IV.

Sources and references ............................................................................... 13Impressum..................................................................................................... 14

-2–

I. I.1.

Introduction Objectives of the SWOT analysis

This study has the objective to give an overview on the use of nanomaterials in the automotive sector and has not the goal to be exhaustive. It will give to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) the possibility to have a concise description of thedevelopment in this sector. For this reason no scientific detail and technological explanation are presented. Four main aspects of the industrial branch will be described in the SWOT analysis. The “Strengths” and “Weaknesses” will give information on the actual State of the Art concerning the use of nanomaterials and the “Opportunities” and “Threats” will describe future Trends and Vision in theindustrial sector. In order to give precision about the definition of the terms “Strengths”, “Weaknesses” “Opportunities” and “Threats” in relation to the project NanoRoadSME, specific questions were defined for each of the four aspects. Actual industrial state of the art “Strengths” Which nanomaterials are presently industrially used in the corresponding sector? What are their technological andsocio-economic advantages? “Weaknesses” What are the actual technological and socio-economic barriers to be overcome concerning products and applications in the corresponding sector? Trends and vision in the sector “Opportunities” How can R&D opportunities in nanomaterials (new development of nanomaterials, scientific breakthroughs) solve the existing problems and improve the existing weaknesses ofproducts? “Threats” What are the threats/risks linked with the new opportunities; technological, market and socio-economic risks?

-3–

I.2.

Overview on the automotive sector

The automotive industry is torn between trying to reduce costs on the one hand and, on the other, dealing with the high price of performance-enhancing technology and environmental compliance. Key drivers in theautomotive industry are: • Reduced air pollution • Reduction of weight • Recyclability • Safety • Better performance and engine efficiency (fuel saving) • Aesthetics • Longer service life Future Applications in the Automotive Industry Through nanotechnology, the automotive industry can get its new growth potential and development momentum. The design and manufacturing of cars, trucks and buses can...