Future vehicles are expected to be nothing like what we have today. As a result, many disruptive trends, such as nanotechnology, are sweeping the automotive industry.
Fremont, CA: When fuel consumption, environmental impact, safety, driver information, comfort, and alternatives to toxic or expensive materials are all considered, nanotechnology enters the picture to transform car manufacturing.
Nanotechnology Applications in Vehicle Manufacturing
Lightweight Mirrors and Windows to Ensure Safety
People are concerned about the concept of safety these days. Automotive manufacturers also address safety concerns by embracing nanotechnology to make car products more secure, durable, and long-lasting. Lightweight mirrors and windows have recently taken centre stage in automotive manufacturing. Applying an ultra-thin reflective aluminum oxide layer with thicknesses less than 100 nm on vehicle glass helps improve safety and security. Manufacturers can reduce discomfort from sunlight and glare by using lightweight mirrors and windows in vehicles.
Nanomaterial Tyres for Excellent Traction
Even before the automotive industry considered nanotechnology, car tyre manufacturers embraced the technology to operate futuristically. Carbon black was the first nanomaterial used as a pigment and reinforcing agent by tyre manufacturers. They served as a key to keeping the tyre performance on the track. The rubber mixture provided an optimization in requirements that directly oppose its flaws. Around 30% of the tyre cover comprises reinforcing fillers, which enable desired properties like grip, abrasion resistance, resistance to initial wear and tear, and tear propagation. It leverages good grip while driving by incorporating nanotechnology into car tyres.
Longer Battery Life with Advanced Electronic Car Batteries
Electric vehicles with large batteries are expected to be the next generation of automobiles. Electric cars are already on the road, and these futuristic vehicles will dominate the streets in the future. The goal of electric vehicle manufacturers is to increase battery life while decreasing weight. This is impossible to do without mentioning nanotechnology. With the help of nanotechnology, lithium-silicon batteries have the potential to improve performance and durability. Silicon nanowires, a recent advancement in battery technology, can expand and contract as they absorb and release lithium ions.