Continental Structural Plastics (CSP) says that its TCA Ultra Lite Class A body-panel material — currently in production for General Motors’ 2016 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray — has reduced the weight of the Stingray Coupé model by 20lb.

This patented material substitutes glass bubbles for some calcium-carbonate filler to save weight, It is being
used in 21 body-panel assemblies, doors, deck-lids, quarter panels and fenders for the 2016 Coupé.

Corvette chief engineer Tadge Juechter said: “In materials engineering, shaving a single pound off the weight of a car is a significant accomplishment, so saving 20lb is monumental!

This is a great example of how Chevrolet is continually looking for innovations that improve performance on the Corvette and could benefit possible future applications.”

CSP chairman and CEO Frank Macher said: “We have been working closely with GM to launch this patented weight-saving technology on the iconic Corvette, achieving this conversion with no changes in material thickness or tooling, while maintaining the superior surface finish required for this premium vehicle.”