Like the exterior automotive applications, the applications beneath the bonnet are focused on structural characteristics and behaviour in crash situations. Spare-wheel pans, underbody panelling/shielding and parts of the chassis are the components used in series production.

Underbody shielding is designed to meet the various requirements in accordance with the various vehicle segments, from pure aerodynamic panelling and trim through to hard off-road operation. Weight reduction with enhanced acoustics will be the development trends in the years to come. The spare-wheel pans made in GMT have now become a standard component for various car manufacturers. Besides the weight saving, they also offer cost advantages and feature a very high level of functional integration.

Initial applications in the chassis sector bear witness to the excellent suitability of the continuous filament-reinforced grades/materials in comparison with aluminium. Besides weight advantages, these materials primarily offer clear advantages in the sector of fatigue strength. Here as well, the trend is towards modularisation through to complete floor modules «from bumper to bumper».