GM is planning to use alloys and polymers that move or change shape when given a programmed stimulus--such as heat, cold or a shot of electricity --that could add more high-tech features to its
vehicles, even as it reduces cost and improves fuel efficiency.
In practical terms, that means instead of having to replace a crunched fender, your repair shop might just heat it up
and watch it resume its programmed shape. Alan Taub, GM's executive director of research and development, says the automaker wants to be "the intellectual leader in smart materials." It expects to
start using the breakthrough materials as early as 2010. It has patented 40 devices that use the materials; another 175 are in the patent process.
Taub estimates that smart materials
will cost no more than--and could cost only one-tenth as much as--traditional materials. They also weigh far less, which will help improve fuel economy, while meeting consumer demand for more devices.
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