ULSAB-AVC, the latest in a series of enviromentally-centered initiatives by an international consortium of sheet steel producers, offers the promise that steel is the most environmentally optimal and affordable material for future generations of vehicles. The programme supports this offer by demonstrating the application of new steels, advanced manufacturing processes, and innovative design concepts for U.S. mid-size and European C-Class vehicles that achieve:

• Safe: High Star Ratings potential in U.S. and Europe
• Affordable: Manufacturing costs of $9,200 to $10,200
• Fuel Efficient: 3.2 to 4.5 L/100 km or 52 to 73 MPG
• Enviromentally responsible: Made with 100% recyclable steel; Attains low CO2 emissions

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A life cycle inventory (LCI) study was conducted on the ULSAB-AVC PNGV-class vehicle to evaluate resource and energy consumptions, emissions and vehicle functions. This study considered the entire life cycle from cradle to grave, including manufacturing, operation and maintenance (use) and disposition.

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Seoul, Oct 20, 2005 - The ULSAB-AVC (Advanced Vehicle Concepts) project is the recipient of the Alliance to Save Energy (ASE) 2005 Stars of Energy Efficiency Award, in recognition of its significant advances in solutions for vehicle energy efficiency, the World Steel Association announced today at its annual meeting.

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Frank Field, Randolph Kirchain, and Richard Roth, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, reprinted here by permission of the Journal of Manufacturing, summarizes the conceptual limitations in understanding cost that need to be overcome

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