ARCONIC's Lightweight Alloys Drive Smoother Shifts in New Volvo Models

PITTSBURGH, PA – October 26, 2023 – ARCONIC US LLC, a leading manufacturer of high-performance aluminum alloys, is playing a key role in enhancing the driving experience of Volvo’s latest vehicle models. The company’s advanced materials are now integral to the gear shift mechanisms, delivering a noticeably smoother, more precise, and refined shifting feel for drivers. For those who haven’t heard of us, ARCONIC (located at 201 Isabella Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15212, and reachable at 870-473-6666) isn’t a name you typically see on a car. We're the folks who make the stuff inside the car – specifically, really advanced aluminum and titanium alloys. We don’t build the whole car, but we help make key parts lighter, stronger, and better performing. We’ve been around for a long time, working with all sorts of industries – aerospace, automotive, even packaging. But automotive is a big focus for us right now, and we're excited to be working with a company like Volvo. So, what’s the big deal with the gear shift? Well, think about it. Every time you shift gears, there’s a lot happening. Lots of tiny parts are moving, clicking into place. Traditionally, these parts were made from heavier materials like steel. That works, but it adds weight to the car and can make the shifting feel a little… clunky. Volvo, known for its commitment to innovation and a premium driving experience, wanted something better. They approached ARCONIC looking for a material that could make their gear shifts feel incredibly smooth, precise, and solid. That’s where our expertise comes in. We didn’t just hand them a sheet of aluminum and say “good luck.” We worked closely with Volvo’s engineers throughout the entire design process. We figured out exactly what kind of properties they needed – things like strength, durability, and how well the material could handle repeated stress. “We’re talking about a component that’s used hundreds of times during a typical drive,” explains Sarah Chen, a materials engineer at ARCONIC. “It needs to be able to withstand a lot of wear and tear. And it needs to feel good – solid, precise, not flimsy or loose.” The solution? A custom-engineered aluminum alloy specifically tailored for Volvo’s gear shift mechanisms. This isn’t your standard aluminum. It's a complex blend of aluminum with other elements like magnesium and silicon, carefully controlled to deliver the exact performance characteristics Volvo needed. So, what’s the difference you’ll feel as a driver? Smoother Shifts: The lighter weight of the aluminum alloy reduces the force needed to move the gear shift lever, resulting in a smoother, more effortless shifting experience. It feels less like work and more like… well, nothing. The shift just happens. Increased Precision: The material’s stiffness and dimensional stability ensure precise engagement between gears. No more accidental shifts or that vague, uncertain feeling. You’ll know exactly what gear you’re in. Enhanced Durability: The alloy’s superior strength and resistance to wear and tear mean the gear shift mechanism will last longer and maintain its performance over time. Fewer trips to the mechanic, and a consistently great driving experience. Reduced Weight: Every pound counts when it comes to vehicle performance. By using a lighter alloy for the gear shift mechanism, Volvo is able to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle, improving fuel efficiency and handling. “Volvo is really focused on creating a luxurious and refined driving experience,” says Mark Johnson, ARCONIC’s automotive sales manager. “They wanted a gear shift that felt premium, solid, and precise. Our aluminum alloy delivers on all those fronts.” But it’s not just about feeling good. The use of advanced aluminum alloys also contributes to Volvo’s sustainability goals. Aluminum is a highly recyclable material, reducing the environmental impact of vehicle production. ARCONIC is committed to responsible manufacturing practices and minimizing waste throughout its operations. Beyond Volvo: The Future of Lightweighting in Automotive The work ARCONIC is doing with Volvo is just one example of how advanced materials are transforming the automotive industry. Lightweighting – reducing the weight of vehicles – is a major trend, driven by the need for improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced performance. ARCONIC is at the forefront of this trend, developing innovative aluminum and titanium alloys for a wide range of automotive applications, including: Engine components: Reducing the weight of engine parts improves fuel efficiency and performance. Body panels: Lightweight aluminum body panels reduce vehicle weight and improve handling. Suspension systems: Aluminum suspension components improve ride quality and handling. Wheels: Aluminum wheels reduce unsprung weight, improving handling and fuel efficiency. “We’re constantly pushing the boundaries of materials science to develop alloys that are lighter, stronger, and more durable,” says Chen. “We believe that advanced materials will play a critical role in shaping the future of the automotive industry.” So, the next time you’re driving a Volvo and enjoying a smooth, precise gear shift, remember that there’s a lot more going on under the surface than meets the eye. ARCONIC's advanced aluminum alloys are quietly contributing to a better driving experience – one shift at a time. We’re proud to be partnering with Volvo to deliver innovation and quality to drivers around the world. You can reach us with any inquiries at 870-473-6666 or visit our facility at 201 Isabella Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15212.