In manufacturing, the latest innovations in equipment, processes and materials often get tested first by automotive OEMs or Tier 1 suppliers. A good example of this is the Polimotor, an all-plastic engine that inventor Matti Holtzberg has worked on for nearly 40 years.
DEARBORN, MI—Ford says it won’t be affected by a looming shortage of a resin that can carry fuel and other liquids. It has worked with suppliers to develop alternative materials.
Traditionally, using any material other than metal in the engine compartment was unthinkable. But, that old rule of thumb is changing as many automakers and suppliers use plastic to reduce vehicle weight.
