COMMENT: Ford F-150 advancements highlight need for raw materials

The 2015 aluminium-bodied Ford F-150 is one of many examples of ingenuity and innovation in the US automotive industry. As US vehicle manufacturers continue to improve vehicle efficiency, lower emissions and implement cutting-edge technology, they are not only looking to aluminium, but also countless other minerals and metals. However, the auto industry, like the rest of the manufacturing sector, is increasingly challenged by growing global competition for minerals and metals needed to produce today’s transportation fleet - a problem that more efficient US mine permitting could help address.