Hyundai develops better steel

Hyundai develops better steel

Keywords: Coatings, Coatings technology, Road vehicles

Hyundai Hysco Co., South Korea's fourth-largest steelmaker, has developed a type of steel plate for cars that dramatically slows rust.

The company said its “pre-sealed” steel plate will improve cars'durability by making cars rust-free for 20 years, compared with the current six years, JoongAng Ilbo stated recently.

Production of the new steel is expected to cut down automakers' production costs by eliminating the process of waterproofing connected parts that rust easily, such as fenders and the lower edge of doors.

“We're anticipating higher profitability by supplying high-value- added products for luxury cars starting next year,” said Hyundai Spokesman Kim Byeong-gyu. “With our advanced technology, we want to take a larger market share.”

Pre-sealed steel plates are already in use by overseas carmakers to produce luxury cars, including BMW and Lexus sedans, the company said.