Use of plastic in auto exteriors to grow

The market for automotive exterior plastics is expected to grow at a rate of 3.0% per year to 2006, reaching 1.4 billion lb., according to a report from Business Communication Inc. of Norwalk, CT. Increased use of plastic materials in SUVs will account for much of the growth, as OEMs will utilize more plastic in order to enhance the fuel efficiency of these vehicles.
The estimate includes five major resin/elastomer groups, thermosets, TPEs, engineering resins, commodity thermoplastics and alloys and blends.
Thermosets, which comprise the largest market, with a market share of about 30%, will experience the largest annual growth over the forecast period at 4.4%. Engineering resins comprise the second largest market share, however they are expected to have the lowest growth over the next five years. A copy of the report, titles "Dynamics of Auto Exteriors: Plastics, Elastomers, Coatings" can be purchased by calling 203-853-4266, ext 309.