KATHMANDU: Ferrari and BMW are expanding the use of aluminum wiring in their vehicles as global automakers look for lighter and more cost-effective alternatives to copper, according to Reuters.
The move follows Tesla and several Chinese EV manufacturers, which have already started replacing copper components with aluminum. The shift is expected to impact global copper demand as the automotive industry increases the adoption of aluminum-based wiring.
Ferrari has introduced aluminum wiring in its 296 hybrid sports car and other models, including its first electric vehicle, the Luce. The company says aluminum helps reduce wiring weight by up to 20 percent.
BMW first introduced aluminum conductors in the 1 Series in 2011 and has gradually expanded the technology across hybrid and electric vehicles. The company currently uses aluminum cables in both high- and low-voltage systems in its latest EV platforms.
The key reason behind the transition is weight reduction. Aluminum is significantly lighter than copper, helping electric vehicles improve efficiency and driving range. Aluminum is also much cheaper, with current prices around one-fourth of copper.
However, copper remains important for applications where higher electrical performance is required. Aluminum needs more material to deliver the same conductivity as copper and also requires more energy during production.
China has taken the lead in promoting aluminum substitution, with several EV manufacturers including XPeng, Xiaomi and Avatr Technology adopting aluminum wiring.
Industry analysts expect aluminum could replace around 6 percent of annual copper demand by 2030. The automotive sector is seen as a major area for further adoption, especially as EV makers focus on reducing weight and production costs.
