A new research study commissioned by The Aluminum Association Inc. contends that aluminum has surpassed iron in volume by content for automobiles manufactured worldwide. The ranking places aluminum second among all metals by volume in vehicles.

The study was commissioned by the Aluminum Assn.'s Auto & Light Truck Group and conducted by Ducker Worldwide. The ALTG promotes automotive aluminum with the goal of accelerating its use in the industry, via research programs and related outreach activities.

Ducker is a business-to-business research, analysis, and strategy consultancy for technically oriented markets, including automotive, metals and materials, industrial equipment, and building and construction.

The study discovered that passenger vehicles in North America now contain an average of 319 lb of aluminum, a 16% increase from 2002 data. Only steel continues to have a higher volume in passenger cars.

"Aluminum penetration in the auto industry continues to surpass competing materials as leading automakers recognize the metal's value in boosting fuel economy, performance and safety, while reducing emissions. With today's sky high fuel prices, rising global warming concerns and increasing safety demands, aluminum is a proven solution today, with even greater promise for tomorrow," said Misha Riveros-Jacobson, president of advanced transportation systems for Alcoa.