Lightweight Materials in Transportation

Lightweight Materials in Transportation

Report Code: AVM056C

Publish Date: Jan 2013

Publisher: BCC Publishing

Category: Advanced Materials

Customize This Report

Explore Our Services

Already a member? Login to access this report free.

Report Highlights

The market for lightweight materials in transportation was valued at $106 billion in 2011 and nearly $106.2 billion in 2012. Total market value is expected to reach nearly $153 billion in 2017 after increasing at a five-year compound annual growth rate of 7.5%.

Report Includes

  • An overview of the global market for lightweight materials in transportation equipment, including motor vehicles, aircraft, trains, and ships
  • Analyses of global market trends, with data from 2011, estimates for 2012, and projections of compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) through 2017
  • Identification of lightweight materials that are in commercial use or under development for transportation applications
  • Discussion of trends by type of material and application
  • Factors that will influence the long-term development of the market
  • Comprehensive company profiles of major players in the industry.

Report Scope

The report is global in scope, focusing on the worldwide market for lightweight materials in transportation equipment, including motor vehicles, aircraft, trains and ships.  Lightweight materials are defined broadly as materials that are used in the fabrication of equipment primarily in order to minimize weight.

As the term is used in this report, transportation equipment includes all motorized vehicles or craft used to convey people, animals or cargo between two points, except for vehicles/craft used exclusively for sports or recreation applications (e.g., glider aircraft and sailboats).  Sports and recreation vehicles and craft are excluded in part because they are the subject of another BCC report, AVM053A Materials and Devices for High-Performance Sports Products.  In this report, dual-purpose transportation equipment, such as small airplanes, is analyzed along with vehicles and craft whose purpose is primarily commercial.

The report also does not cover motor vehicles, ships and aircraft built for and used by the armed forces of the United States and other nations.

The report includes the following major elements:

  • Executive summary.
  • Definitions.
  • Lightweight materials that are in commercial use or under development for transportation applications.
  • Lightweight materials and applications with the greatest commercial potential through 2017.
  • Global market trends by type of material and application, 2011 to 2017.
  • Factors that will influence the long-term development of the market.
Need pricing for multiple titles, a complete report bundle, or something specially curated to fit your budget? Explore Offers

Analyst Credentials

Andrew McWilliams spent more than 25 years as a consultant with Ernst & Young, McKinsey & Company and A.T. Kearny focused on manufacturing before segueing into research analysis. He has been covering myriad technology categories for BCC Research for more than 15 years. McWilliams has a BA from Princeton University and an MA from Harvard University. He has worked in more than 40 countries and he resides in the greater Boston area.

Let us assist you! Our analysts are ready to tailor this report to your specific need. Talk to Our Analyst

Table of Contents

All reports provided in PDF format. For shared licensing options (5+ Users), please call a representative at (+1) 781-489-7301 or contact us at info@bccresearch.com
Title/Chapter NamePagesMember Price
Full Report: Lightweight Materials in Transportation172Free
Chapter- 1: INTRODUCTION4Free
Chapter- 2: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2Free
Chapter- 3: OVERVIEW26Free
Chapter- 4: LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS FOR TRANSPORTATION APPLICATIONS59Free
Chapter- 5: PATENT ANALYSIS3Free
Chapter- 6: PUBLIC POLICY DIMENSIONS OF LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS7Free
Chapter- 7: GLOBAL MARKET FOR LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS USED IN TRANSPORTATION EQUIPMENT58Free
Chapter- 8: C. CRAMER & CO. GMBH13Free

Related Reports

Global Markets for Nanocomposites, Nanoparticles, Nanoclays, and Nanotubes

Published - Jan 2012 | Publisher - Andrew McWilliams | Code - NAN021E

Global consumption of nanocomposites was an estimated 118,768 metric tons with a value of over $800 million in 2010. In 2011, the market should reach 138,389 metric tons and $920 million. By 2016, the market should amount to 333,043 metric tons and $2.4 billion, a five year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.2% in unit terms and 20.9% in value terms.

Advanced Structural Carbon Products: Fibers, Foams & Composites

Published - Sep 2011 | Publisher - Andrew McWilliams | Code - AVM038D

The U.S. market for structural carbon materials was worth nearly $2 billion in 2010. This figure is expected to increase to $2.1 billion in 2011 and $2.8 billion in 2016, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% over the next 5 years.

Smart Materials and Their Applications: Technologies and Global Markets

Published - May 2011 | Publisher - Andrew McWilliams | Code - AVM023D

BCC estimates the global market for smart materials at about $19.6 billion in 2010. BCC expects the market to approach $22 billion in 2011 and pass $40 billion by 2016, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.8% between 2011 and 2016.

Composites: Resins, Fillers, Reinforcements, Natural Fibers & Nanocomposites

Published - Jan 2011 | Publisher - Melvin Schlechter | Code - PLS029C

The North American fiber-reinforced plastic/composite market is estimated at 2.7 billion pounds in 2010 and is expected to increase to about 3.1 billion by 2015, reflecting a 2.8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

Track the Latest Global Tariff Developments

In today's fast-paced global economy, tariffs are no longer static—they are dynamic levers shaped by geopolitical realignments, supply chain vulnerabilities, inflationary pressures, and sustainability-driven trade reforms. As governments worldwide recalibrate their trade strategies, businesses are left to navigate a maze of shifting rules, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainty.

Our analysis empowers you with real-time updates and in-depth expert analysis on all facets of global tariff activity. From new trade agreements and sanctions to abrupt tariff hikes and retaliatory duties, we monitor developments across borders, sectors, and industries—so you don't have to.

Whether it's the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics, the evolving EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), or the emerging policies in India, ASEAN, and Latin America, we provide full-spectrum coverage. We also track multilateral trade negotiations, World Trade Organization (WTO) rulings, and sector-specific duty structures—ensuring you are always ahead of global trade shifts.

With our analysis, you can stay informed, identify risks, and confidently respond to tariff changes—no matter where you operate.

Ready to see what tariff means for your business?

Consult with our experts or request your custom Tariff Impact Brife today

Stay Informed, Stay Competitive

In today's interconnected and unpredictable global economy, staying ahead of tariff shifts is not just important—it's essential. BCC Research provides decision-makers with trusted, research-driven insights that turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Our in-depth market analysis and trade intelligence help you decode how tariff changes impact your specific sector—manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, or energy. We break down complex data into actionable knowledge through comprehensive reports, expert commentaries, and sector-focused forecasts.

Our analysis includes:

  • Thorough breakdowns of current and proposed tariff policies and how they affect regional and global trade flows.
  • Sector-specific implications, helping you understand the strategic impact on sourcing, pricing, and competitiveness.
  • Forward-looking insights to support risk management, planning, and response strategies for evolving trade conditions.

With BCC Research, you gain more than just information—you gain clarity and confidence to make well-informed decisions in a volatile trade environment.

Don't let tariffs catch you off guard—let our insights guide your strategy.

This is an Excel-only version of the report.

Report Includes

    Total Number of Tables in this Report: 60

  • Summary Table: GLOBAL MARKET FOR LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS IN TRANSPORTATION, THROUGH 2017
  • Table 1: TRANSPORTATION EQUIPMENT MATERIALS CONSUMPTION, THROUGH 2017
  • Table 2: PROJECTED MOTOR VEHICLE PRODUCTION BY TYPE, THROUGH 2017
  • Table 3: GLOBAL SHIPMENTS OF RAILWAY LOCOMOTIVES AND ROLLING STOCK, 2011
  • Table 4: PROJECTED SHIPMENTS OF RAILWAY LOCOMOTIVES AND ROLLING STOCK, THROUGH 2017
  • Table 5: AVERAGE WEIGHT OF RAILWAY LOCOMOTIVES AND ROLLING STOCK, 2011
  • Table 6: WORLD SHIP DELIVERIES, THROUGH 2011
  • Table 7: WORLD SHIP DELIVERIES, THROUGH 2017
  • Table 8: GLOBAL DELIVERIES OF CIVILIAN AIRCRAFT, 2011 THROUGH 2017
  • Table 9: CIVILIAN AIRCRAFT AVERAGE UNLOADED WEIGHT BY TYPE OF AIRCRAFT, 2011
  • Table 10: MAJOR END USES AND APPLICATIONS OF HIGH-STRENGTH STEEL
Sample Report

Recent Reports

Global Curing Agents Market

Published - Sep 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - AVM258A

The global market for curing agents is estimated to grow from $7.4 billion in 2025 and forecast to reach $10 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% from 2025 to 2030.

3D Printing for Construction: Global Markets

Published - Sep 2025 | Publisher - Yukti Chaturvedi | Code - AVM238B

The global market for 3D printing for construction is expected to grow from $228.6 million in 2025 and is projected to reach $6.5 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 95.5% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Battery Recycling: Global Markets

Published - Aug 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - AVM233B

The global market for battery recycling is expected to grow from $12.8 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $19.8 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.2% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Bio-based Coatings: Global Markets

Published - Aug 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - AVM254A

The global market for bio-based coatings is expected to grow from $13.6 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $22.6 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.7% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Global Battery Coating Market

Published - Aug 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - AVM257A

This report provides a detailed understanding of the global battery coating market. It includes an in-depth analysis of battery coatings in terms of material type, battery component type, battery type, technology type, and end-use industry. The report examines key drivers, emerging trends, and significant players and provides market estimates through 2030.

Published - Feb-2011| Analyst - Andrew McWilliams| Code - AVM056B

Report Highlights

The total global consumption of lightweight materials used in transportation equipment was 46.7 million tons/$95.5 billion in 2010. This market is expected to reach 67.7 million tons/$125.3 billion by 2015, increasing at a compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) of 7.7% in tonnage terms and 5.6% in value terms between 2010 and 2015.

Published - May-2007| Analyst - Andrew McWilliams| Code - AVM056A

Report Highlights

  • The total global consumption of lightweight materials used in transportation equipment was 42.8 million tons/$80.5 billion in 2006 and will increase to 68.5 million tons/$106.4 billion by 2011, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.9% in tonnage terms and 5.7% in value terms between 2006 and 2011.
  • High strength steel accounts for the largest percentage of total tons of lightweight materials consumed, followed by aluminum and plastics. In value terms, plastics with their relatively high unit prices are the largest market segment. Aluminum and high strength steel are the second and third largest product segments.
  • Motor vehicles, particularly passenger cars and light trucks, are by far the largest end-user segment. Shipbuilding was the second largest consumer of lightweight materials, while the aircraft industry ranks second in the value of the lightweight materials consumed.

Become A Member

BCC Research offers a comprehensive library of reports, granting members unlimited access to data, insights, and market intelligence for informed business decisions, while actively supporting members in their evolving journeys and prioritizing high-quality, relevant topics based on continuous engagement with the research community.

Find Out More

Custom Consulting

BCC Research emphasizes the importance of organizations leveraging highly customized market insights aligned with specific strategic business objectives through direct engagement with primary sources and proprietary forecasting models for profitable decision-making in maximizing growth opportunities and minimizing risks.

Customize Now

Scorecard

The Venture Scorecard provides commercialization offices and decision makers with expert analysis, offering strategic insights crucial for aligning objectives with market realities at various stages of commercializing new products or evaluating investment opportunities, from opportunity assessment to growth planning.

Find Out More

Innovation Spotlight

Our industry experts offer strategic guidance to maximize the market potential of commercialized products, patents, and IP by providing insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and effective positioning, using the Innovation Spotlight service for enhanced exposure to thought leaders and the wider community.

Find Out More
Lightweight Materials in Transportation
Customize Report
AI: Your Say