Stainless steel steps up as prices fall; Weight savings, no corrosion make it attractive.(News)

Automotive News Europe,  August, 2003  

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Metals producers are pushing for broader automotive applications for stainless steel as falling prices for the alloy make it more competitive against aluminum and mild steel.

Stainless steel already has become the dominant material for some specialty applications because it is non-corrosive. About 80 percent of all exhaust systems in Europe are stainless steel, for example. High cost has limited its use to mostly exhaust systems and decorative trim.

But as its cost premium over ordinary mild steel has fallen, stainless steel is being considered for new uses including body ...

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