Article
Advanced plastics pave the way for sustainability and fuel efficiency
Around the world the automotive industry is facing many challenges, not the least of which is a desire to produce more sustainable vehicles while improving fuel efficiency, safety, vehicle performance and driver comfort.
Article
selected item
Auto manufacturers are also seeking ways in which to meet current government regulations, which call for cars and light trucks to get 54.5 miles per gallon (MPG) by 2025. In order to meet these current standards, auto makers have turned to plastic parts, which are just as durable as other materials but are much lighter.
ExxonMobil supports the automotive industry’s response to changing market trends by providing a variety of advanced products that can help reduce weight and increase fuel efficiency. Our petroleum-based polymers are already used in vehicle braking systems, bumpers, paneling, weatherseals, automotive lubricants, fuel additives and even battery cases. We also employ tire technologies that help maintain optimal tire pressure. These innovative solutions not only increase miles per gallon but also reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve sustainability.
ExxonMobil Chemical: Advancing Automotive

To meet regulations, cars will be expected to contain an average of 350 kg, or 770 pounds, of plastics by 2020, an increase of 75 percent from the current amount being used (200 kg or 440 Ibs). In today’s cars, plastics represent nearly 50 percent of the volume of the vehicle but only account for 10 percent of the total weight. ExxonMobil continues to develop advanced plastics to meet auto industry standards and consumer expectations while mitigating environmental impact through emissions reduction.
Learn more about our plastics products:
Related content

ExxonMobil Chemical
As one of the world’s largest chemical companies, ExxonMobil Chemical comprises world-class engineers, scientists, technologists and business professionals dedicated to ensuring operational excellence, increased productivity and long-term value.Chemical Article •

Building better chemical regulations for a better future
ExxonMobil encourages greater public confidence in product safety by actively supporting the American Chemistry Council’s call for TSCA modernization, an initiative that increases public access to information on chemicals.Chemical Article •

REACH puts the focus back on chemical safety
ExxonMobil is committed to complying with the European Union’s chemical regulation requirements and participating in industry consortia and trade associations to achieve cost-effective implementation.Chemical Article •