Economic Information Daily reported that with auto industry progressing toward lightness, low emission, long lifetime, low cost and high safety, how steel products better cater for this trend? Lately, a seminar about the production and technology application of auto steel was held in Lalian, Liaoning province, where experts appeal to the alliance of steel and auto industries to strengthen the research and development of auto steel products.
Information sourced from CISA shows that in 2007 over 90% of auto steel consumed in China were made at home. But middle and low grade sedans and trucks eyed high material localization rate, while steel plate and sheet for upper scale sedans were imported in a large amount. Besides, some other products also depend on import such as part of rebar and wire rod for autos, steel gas valve for auto motors, cold heading steel for some high strength standardized parts and components and leaded steel.
Professor Wang with University of Science and Technology, Beijing said that around 70% of auto-making materials come from steel sector. There has been more and more attention being paid upon the exchange and cooperation between steel and auto industries, for the latter has become a significant customer of the former.
Professor Wang Guodong academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering said GM has earlier raised a fresh conception of Simultaneous Project in 1988, namely to make steel company involved in the design and development of new style auto in early stage. This way of cooperation could fulfill coordination and uniformity economically and effectively in designing auto products and parts and moulds a valuable example for Chinese businesses.
Mr Lu Jiangxin Secretary of the Party committee of Baosteel Research Department said that the steel industry should take initiative to extend its research antenna into downstream auto sector and help resolve problems in auto steel and at the same time equip itself with technology backup.
(Sourced from Economic Information Daily)
