Our Policy Positions
Strong, highly crash absorbent, low weight and infinitely recyclable, aluminum is a material uniquely suited to meet the needs and challenges of the 21st century. Working in partnership with our members, the Aluminum Transportation Group is committed to telling the industry’s story and sharing our policy priorities to ensure a bright future for this vital part of the U.S. manufacturing base.
Safety
From how we drive them to how they will eventually drive us, vehicles are changing but safety is non-negotiable in all scenarios. Size, not weight, is the leading automotive safety determinant. Nearly every aluminum-bodied vehicle crash tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration earned a four-or five-star rating.
Emissions
As Americans drive vehicles made lighter with aluminum, the nation benefits from reduced carbon emissions, increased fuel economy and extended EV range. Third-party data confirms, aluminum offers the smallest total carbon footprint, not just for the tailpipe, but when all phases of a vehicle’s life cycle are considered.
Security
Aluminum helps protect the nation’s energy security and independence while saving American’s money. Over the last decade, the U.S. aluminum industry committed or invested more than $6.5 billion in domestic manufacturing to create jobs and support growing demand for the metal.
Workforce
The aluminum industry employs 164,400 direct and 470,000 indirect workers, representing jobs in every state and the District of Columbia. Those workers earn over $13 billion in wages and benefits, and when all employment supported by the industry is considered, these jobs generate nearly $15 billion in taxes.