Methods and processes for robust weight management in the automotive industry

The development of successful automobiles requires the consideration of customer, business and public interests. Especially public interests like legislation, environment and regulations challenge the automotive industry today [1, 2, 3]. In order to achieve all desired requirements, an intelligent overall system of objectives is indispensable [4].The vehicle weight is a crucial part of the system of objectives because it influences the vehicle design as well as customer-relevant characteristics like fuel consumption, range and driving dynamics. Therefore, the definition of the vehicle weight target is a fundamental milestone in the vehicle development process [1].The extensive influence of the vehicle weight on various characteristics leads to challenging and fixed weight targets throughout the project. The high volatility of vehicle developments due to the system’s complexity and tightening regulations can lead to target adjustments during the development process. As a result, time and cost intense measures are inevitable, which get more and more expensive the later they are applied [2].For that reason, the demand for a structured and continuous weight management consisting of several suitable methods is derived. The goal is to set up an elaborate weight target system which ensures a robust achievement of challenging weight targets.