Like a third-string quarterback awaiting his moment in the spotlight, magnesium has been sitting patiently on the lightweighting sideline. But, it may finally get its turn to shine in automotive applications, thanks to several recent breakthroughs.
Magnesium is the lightest structural metal. With a density two-thirds that of aluminum and a quarter that of steel, magnesium could potentially replace heavier alloys traditionally used in the auto industry.