Ford F-150 Wins Lightweighting Award

The 2015 Ford F-150 pickup truck beat 16 other nominees to win this year's Altair Enlighten Award for its use of lightweight materials. The award, now in its third year, is sponsored by Troy, Mich.-based Altair Engineering Inc. in collaboration with the Center for Automotive Research.

The aluminum-intensive F-150 was recognized by taking a holistic approach to weight reduction that saved 700 lbs compared to the previous-generation model. This included an aluminum body that saved 400 lbs and greater use of high-strength steel in the frame, which reduced weight by 60 lbs.

This year's runner-up was General Motors' Alpha platform, which debuted with the 2012 Cadillac ATS and CTS cars. Extensive use of computer-aided engineering tools enabled a 163-lb weight reduction while improving structural stiffness and safety, the judges note.

Third place went to Faurecia and its Automotive Performance Materials venture for the use of interior components made from natural fibers in the 2013 Peugeot 308 hatchback. Combined with polypropylene, the hemp-based fiber provided a 20%-25% weight savings and allowed for greater design flexibility with more complex shapes.