Altair, a global leader in computational intelligence, is spearheading the development of a more sustainable future for the automotive industry. The company is playing a key role in the £5.8 million Performance Integrated Vehicle Optimization Technology (PIVOT) project, supported by Innovate UK and the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC). This ambitious initiative aims to revolutionize vehicle manufacturing by creating lighter, more sustainable components, thanks to Altair’s cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and simulation capabilities.
Led by Sarginsons Industries, the PIVOT project brings together a consortium of experts, including Altair, Aston Martin, Brunel University London, and metal recycling specialists GESCRAP. Together, they are developing innovative software that combines casting simulation, topology optimization, and AI, enabling organizations to design components optimized for weight, structural performance, and manufacturability. This revolutionary approach will lead to cast aluminum structures that are up to 30% lighter while maintaining performance requirements.
The project’s focus on using 100% recycled aluminum is key to reducing embedded carbon emissions in vehicle components by up to 95%. Brunel University London’s advanced grain refinement techniques address the mechanical weaknesses inherent in recycled aluminum, making it possible to use secondary alloys for cast structural applications such as vehicle chassis systems. This groundbreaking development will enable manufacturers to achieve significant environmental benefits without compromising on component strength or performance.
“This collaboration demonstrates how our AI-powered engineering technology enables manufacturers to develop more efficient vehicle components, cutting down on weight and drastically reducing environmental impact,” said Sam Mahalingam, Chief Technical Officer at Altair. “We are proud to work with like-minded organizations to showcase how innovations in manufacturing contribute to a more sustainable automotive future.”
Mark Nunan, Managing Director at Sarginsons Industries, shared his enthusiasm for the project: “PIVOT represents a huge step forward for the casting industry. With Altair’s state-of-the-art technology, we are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, creating components that are not only lighter and stronger but also significantly greener.”
PIVOT serves as a testament to the power of AI, recycled materials, and advanced casting processes in reshaping vehicle manufacturing while minimizing environmental impact. The project is poised to deliver critical advancements in the coming years, empowering OEMs and foundries to embrace more efficient and sustainable production methods. This initiative highlights a future where the automotive industry is not only greener but also more innovative, leading the way towards a sustainable future for transportation.
