Greater use of structural adhesive and aluminum is helping Cadillac reduce overall weight of the all-new CTS sedans, contributing to better ride and handling and reduced cabin noise in both models.
The new CTS uses 11,796 cm of structural adhesive – more than the length of a football field – as a bonding agent that holds together and stiffens load-bearing parts and components. The extensive use of adhesive provides a damping effect, which reduces the transmission of vibration through the body structure. That pays off in fewer squeaks and rattles reaching a driver.
The heavy-duty material, along with traditional metal joining processes like spot welding, also makes a stiffer, more durable joint. These advanced techniques, in addition to the use of high-strength steels and efficient geometry helps make the new CTS sedan 40 percent stiffer than the previous model.
To further improve performance, aluminum was used extensively to save weight. For the first time, all four doors will be constructed of aluminum; cutting 25 kg compared with the steel doors on the previous generation CTS.
With a base curb weight of 1,633 kg, CTS is the lightest vehicle in its class.
“Reducing overall weight is a key element in producing a car that delivers agile handling dynamics,” said John Plonka, CTS program engineering manager. “By rethinking very traditional elements, such as such as materials used for bumpers and doors, we are able to save precious weight and stay true to delivering a vehicle that is fun to drive.”
Other aluminum contributions to weight savings:
• 6 kg by replacing steel bumpers on the current generation CTS.
• 6.3 kg by making front strut towers of cast aluminum compared with steel used in current CTS.
• 3.2 kg from the instrument panel structure, where extruded and stamped aluminum replaced cast magnesium.
• 16.5 kg by using extruded and cast aluminum vs. a steel powertrain cradle on the current model.
The 2014 Cadillac CTS ascends into the heart of the midsize luxury market with expanded performance, elevated styling and sophisticated technology. The vehicle arrives in showrooms in January 2014.