Lightweight construction is more than just a way to save materials. It is a key lever for efficiency, innovation and climate protection. The new Fraunhofer Spotlight "Lightweight Construction 2.0" shows the contribution the technology makes along the entire value chain - and what is needed to strategically develop this potential.

Economic Significance in Figures
According to a study commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Labour, the value of lightweight construction-related goods and services produced in Germany in 2019 will amount to around €360 billion - this corresponds to around 5.5% of Germany's gross production value. More than 3 million jobs are directly or indirectly related to lightweight construction. Lightweight construction is particularly relevant for vehicle construction, mechanical and plant engineering, energy technology and the construction industry.

Lightweight 2.0 Strategy: Holistic, Digital, Resilient
Lightweight 2.0 strategy: holistic, digital, resilient Lightweight 2.0 is a comprehensive efficiency strategy. Digital twins, sensor-based data systems, digital product passports and AI-supported development processes open up new ways to use materials and energy more efficiently. This not only reduces costs and emissions, but also accelerates innovation and time to market.

Recommendations at a Glance
Among other things, Fraunhofer recommends:

• a prompt relaunch of the successful technology transfer program "Lightweight Construction and Material Efficiency" (TTP LM) with an annual funding volume of at least 130 million euros
• the targeted expansion of the Lightweight Construction 2.0 ecosystem, including digital infrastructure and European networking
• Technology priorities in areas such as recyclable materials, automated production, digital product passports and holistic life cycle assessment Cross-sector relevance

Whether more energy-efficient vehicles, low-carbon building materials, durable infrastructures or flexible hydrogen storage systems - the potential of lightweight construction 2.0 affects many industries. The combination of materials expertise, digitalization and application practice is the key to sustainable transformation.

The full flyer with all details and recommendations can be downloaded here (only available in German).