The Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI), a business unit of the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), awarded the “Automotive Excellence Award” to Honda Motor Company for their advanced high-strength steel (AHSS) innovations in the 2018 Honda Odyssey. The award was presented today by David Anderson, senior director, automotive market, SMDI at the 17th annual Great Designs in Steel (GDIS) seminar in Livonia, Michigan.
Nic Goldsberry, senior body design engineer at Honda, accepted the award for his GDIS 2017 presentation, titled, “The All-New 2018 Honda Odyssey.” Honda designed an all-new chassis for the 2018 Odyssey, based on the platform used in light duty trucks to maximize manoeuvrability and steering ease. They employed the Next-Gen Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure in combination with tailor welded hot stamped door rings and a new multi-connection bumper beam to enhance occupant protection. The Odyssey is comprised of 58 percent high-strength steel leading to high rigidity and a lightweight body.
“Automotive Excellence Award winners use advanced high-strength steel in applications to provide the best value for consumers while also improving vehicle performance and sustainability,” said Jody Hall, vice president of the automotive market at SMDI. “Steel is driving innovation and Nic and the Honda team are a great example of the capability of these next generation steel grades.”