3 reasons why modern cars are getting heavier and heavier

The lightweight construction of the new generation of the Audi A8 has been much talked about in recent weeks, but did you know that its body weighs 51 kilos more than that of its predecessor?

So what is the problem? The weight of a car is not only based on using lightweight materials, but also on the number of components the vehicle incorporates. Below we analyse the three factors that contribute to the increase in weight in modern cars.

1. Increase in equipment

Manufacturers say that consumers increasingly demand more accessories in their cars; elements that inevitably increase the total weight of the vehicle. The air conditioning, infotainment and connectivity systems, multifunction seats, air suspension or the use of larger wheels all have a negative effect on a car’s weight.

2. Increased safety: emergency systems, ABS… everything adds up

There was a time when a car’s safety equipment was limited to brakes. Today, vehicles have ABS, DSC, a large number of airbags or autonomous emergency braking systems, an essential element for a model to earn the five stars of Euro NCAP. All these elements add weight, just like the impact protection built into modern bodies.

3. Electrification: batteries add weight in electric cars

Whether in 100% electric or hybrid format, a zero-emission motor comes with a series of cables and batteries that a combustion engine does not have. Besides the additional components, the car’s body must adapt its shape to accommodate these elements and protect them from possible damage.