That last standard's been the tough one. Automakers initially thought the goals could be met with new propulsion systems - perhaps batteries or fuel cells. The new propulsion systems eventually should become affordable and reliable - just not by 2004, he said. So, the emphasis of carmakers is shifting. But it's a long road from theory to family car.
Aluminum costs about three times as much as steel.
Cars would have to be manufactured in ways new to Detroit. And all new codes and computer models would be needed for designers, since they plug their ideas into modeling software to see if they're technically feasible. The alliance includes groups that have expertise to contribute and benefits to gain. Boeing, which already uses aluminum in its planes, would have less expensive material available if more is being made, particularly of a new aluminum alloy developed for use on cars. The auto industry is already familiar with the idea of aluminum cars.