Impact of lightweight materials substitution on material stock and carbon emission of private vehicles in China

Increasing the proportion of lightweight materials in automobile manufacturing materials can effectively reduce carbon emissions. Consequently, there exists a close coupling relationship between materials and energy. This study aims to analyze the development of lightweight materials in the future, obtain the material stock and carbon emissions of vehicles during the use phase, and further illustrate the comprehensive impact of lightweight on resources and energy. This study focuses on analyzing the development of several different vehicle models (fuel vehicle, battery electric vehicles, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles), while discussing the varying degrees of development of several lightweight materials (Advanced and High-Strength Steels, Aluminium, Magnesium and plastics and plastic composites). The results indicate that the use of lightweight materials can achieve carbon peak earlier, but it also brings about an increase in resource demand. In order to alleviate resource pressure, the continuous supply of lightweight materials and the development of recycling technology need to be given special attention. This paper has policy reference significance for the collaborative management of energy and material utilization. At the same time, it can provide theoretical and data support for energy and materials sustainable development planning.