Constellium Joins Industry Consortium for Lightweight Vehicle Chassis Innovation Project
Rhea-AI Summary
Constellium SE (NYSE: CSTM) has joined 'Project M-LightEn,' a collaborative initiative led by Gordon Murray Group (GMG) to develop ultra-lightweight, sustainable vehicle chassis structures. The project, supported by Innovate UK and the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), includes partners Carbon ThreeSixty and Brunel University London.
The consortium aims to achieve a 50% reduction in carbon intensity and 25% weight reduction in unibody vehicle architecture over the next three years. Constellium will contribute ultra-high-strength aluminum solutions manufactured with 80% recycled UK consumer scrap. Brunel University London will partner with Constellium for advanced material research and testing.
The project's first phase is focusing on new materials and joining techniques, with innovations expected to be available for low-volume commercial applications by late 2027, followed by mainstream manufacturing adoption.
Positive
- Partnership with prestigious automotive consortium including Gordon Murray Group
- Development of innovative lightweight materials with 80% recycled content
- Potential for commercial applications by 2027
Negative
- Long development timeline (3 years) before commercial implementation
- Initial application to low-volume production
Insights
This strategic initiative positions Constellium at the forefront of a critical transformation in automotive manufacturing. The project's focus on ultra-lightweight, sustainable chassis structures addresses two primary challenges facing automakers: meeting stringent emissions regulations and optimizing electric vehicle range through weight reduction.
The consortium's composition is particularly strategic. Gordon Murray Group's expertise in supercar engineering provides an ideal testing ground for advanced materials, while Brunel University's research capabilities ensure robust validation. This creates a powerful innovation ecosystem that could accelerate Constellium's technological differentiation in the competitive automotive materials market.
The project's timeline to commercial application by late 2027 is well-aligned with the industry's electrification roadmap. By developing solutions using 80% recycled UK consumer scrap, Constellium is building a sustainable competitive advantage in both technology and supply chain resilience. This could translate into preferred supplier status with major OEMs as they transition their platforms to meet zero-emission vehicle mandates.
The initiative's potential impact extends beyond technical achievements. Success in this project could position Constellium to capture a larger share of the premium automotive materials market, particularly in electric vehicles where lightweight structures command premium pricing. The focus on circularity and local recycled content also provides a hedge against raw material volatility and strengthens the company's ESG profile.
PARIS, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Constellium SE (NYSE: CSTM) announced its participation in ‘Project M-LightEn,’ an ambitious new initiative to develop ultra-lightweight, sustainable vehicle chassis structures. Led by Gordon Murray Group (GMG), the initiative is supported by Innovate UK and the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), and includes as partners Constellium, Carbon ThreeSixty, and Brunel University London. Over the next three years, the consortium aims to achieve breakthrough innovations in unibody vehicle architecture that reduce carbon intensity by
As part of Project M-LightEn, Constellium will supply ultra-high-strength aluminum solutions made with
“Alongside Gordon Murray Automotive’s niche supercar application, Project M-LightEn will enable decarbonization across the wider automotive industry by shortening and de-risking the path to market for innovative new materials and processes,” stated GMG’s Strategy and Business Director, Jean-Phillipe Launberg.
“Through Project M-LightEn, Constellium reaffirms its commitment to pushing the boundaries of lightweighting technologies,” stated Martin Jarrett, Director Technology and Innovation at Constellium’s AS&I business unit. “This initiative allows us to develop cutting-edge aluminum solutions that redefine vehicle performance while combining innovation with sustainability and circularity.”
The first phase of Project M-LightEn is underway, focusing on the exploration of new materials and joining techniques. By late 2027, the consortium’s innovations are expected to be available for low-volume commercial applications, with broader adoption in mainstream manufacturing to follow.
About Constellium
Constellium (NYSE: CSTM) is a global sector leader that develops innovative, value-added aluminum products for a broad scope of markets and applications, including aerospace, packaging and automotive. Constellium generated
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FAQ
What are the main goals of Project M-LightEn that Constellium (CSTM) is participating in?
When will Project M-LightEn's innovations be available for commercial use?
What percentage of recycled materials will Constellium (CSTM) use in Project M-LightEn?
Who are the key partners working with Constellium (CSTM) in Project M-LightEn?
