Nissan today announced the world’s first Ultra High Tensile Strength Steel rated at 1.2 gigapascals (GPa). From 2013, this new, highly formable steel will be produced as steel plates for use in cold pressing structural body parts. To be deployed globally in models across the Nissan lineup, it will reduce vehicle body weight by up to 15 kilograms, representing a significant step in improving environmental impact as well as driving performance. The new material will also contribute to lower total costs including that of manufacturing, as superior cold-pressing formability supports mass production.
Developed in collaboration with Nippon Steel and Kobe Steel, the new Ultra High Tensile Strength Steel will be used for center pillar reinforcements, front and side roof rails and other key structural components. By exceeding the structural body performance of previous materials with less thickness, the new steel will contribute to increased dynamic performance and fuel economy.