SPE Automotive Division to hold innovation awards in November

The Automotive Division of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) has announced the date, location and theme for its 43^rd annual Automotive Innovation Awards Gala.

The oldest and largest recognition event in the automotive and plastics industries, this year’s gala will be held Wednesday, November 6, 2013 at Burton Manor in Livonia, Mich.

“The automotive industry faces extremely challenging emissions and fuel-economy standards over the next decade in most major markets, so materials that reduce part mass and cost while improving durability, aesthetics, and functionality are going to be key to helping OEMs meet requirements while producing vehicles that consumers want to buy and drive,” said Jeffrey Helms, global automotive director, Ticona Engineering Polymers, who will serve as the 2013 SPE Automotive Innovation Awards chair. “Events like the SPE Automotive Innovation Awards Competition and Gala will focus a spotlight on cutting-edge technology and the many benefits that polymeric materials can bring to cars, light trucks, and other types of ground transportation.”