The European Union is working on a new regulation that may ban carbon fiber in cars. How will this affect the automotive industry?

Carbon fiber is known for being stronger than steel and lighter than aluminum. However, the health risks associated with this material are also being considered. The EU points out that when carbon fiber becomes waste, it contains fine fibers that can mix with the air, leading to health issues.

If this ban is accepted, Japanese companies Toray Industries, Teijin, and Mitsubishi Chemical will take the biggest hit, holding 54% of the global carbon fiber market.

Carbon fiber is used not only in electric vehicles but also in internal combustion and hybrid vehicles. For instance, McLaren produces the chassis of its supercars entirely from carbon fiber.

The implementation of this ban may take until 2029. Thus, the automotive sector will need to shift towards new materials during this period.