"How do we inspire customers and how does lightweight construction contribute to this?" Franz Storkenmaier, Head of Lightweight Construction and Weight at the BMW Group, opened his keynote speech at the "Automobil Industrie" lightweight construction summit in Würzburg on March 18 with this question.



Storkenmaier cited the BMW i3 and i8 models as examples. However, the topic of enthusiasm also continues one level below - i.e. even before the finished vehicle. This level drives developers and engineers in the automotive environment. "Enthusiasm also needs substance," said Storkenmaier. This includes the agility of an electric vehicle, the new acoustics or the material CFRP and its industrial production. But also unusual examples, such as laser light.



Enthusiasm is also generated by vehicle concepts - and the question here is how this can be achieved at all levels. "How can we achieve more function with less weight?" Storkenmaier asked the 300 or so participants at the event. Using BMW as an example, Storkenmaier referred to the topic of "Efficient Dynamics" and compared the vehicle weight of the i3 and i8 models with that of the competition. He also emphasized the driving performance of the electric vehicles and the low fuel consumption of the models, which is among the best on the market.



The "Automotive Industry Lightweight Construction Summit" brings together OEMs, suppliers, service providers and plant manufacturers in Würzburg every year. The motto of this year's event on March 18 and 19 is "Management of lightweight construction". After the keynote speech by Franz Storkenmaier, Head of Lightweight Construction and Weight at the BMW Group, the event will continue in an exciting way. In specialist sessions, participants will discuss lightweight automotive construction in detail according to their interests. The moderated tour through the "Lightweight City" exhibition area with the "Lightweight Campus" brings together participants and partners from industry, development and research. Presentations by renowned OEMs, suppliers, service providers and plant manufacturers will also provide detailed insights into the entire value chain.



"Automotive Industry" The whole world of mobility. "Automobil Industrie" is the trade magazine at the intersection of technology and business. The focus is on technology and production, lightweight construction and materials as well as information technologies. The megatopics surrounding mobility also feature prominently in the magazine. www.automobil-industrie.de The parent company Vogel Business Media is one of Germany's leading providers of specialist information with over 100 specialist magazines, over 100 web portals, over 100 business events and numerous mobile offerings and international activities. Its headquarters are in Würzburg. The company celebrated its 120th birthday in 2011.