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Top 10 CompositesWorld news items of 2023

Explore 2023’s standout moments in the composites industry with CW's compilation of the top 10 news articles, determined by Google Analytics. 

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Photo Credit: CW

10. Ford Mustang Dark Horse features Carbon Revolution carbon fiber wheels (February 2023)

Ford Mustang Dark Horse
Photo Credit: Carbon Revolution

Ford (Detroit, Mich., U.S.) Mustang Dark Horse, a special edition vehicle equipped with innovative carbon fiber wheels — developed by Carbon Revolution — offer a blend of lightweight construction and strength, enhancing the car’s performance and handling. The benefits of these carbon fiber wheels, include improved fuel efficiency, agility and reduced unsprung weight, which contributes to better overall driving experience. This innovation signifies a significant step forward in automotive technology, showcasing the integration of advanced materials to enhance vehicle performance. Read the full news piece

8. Archer begins eVTOL manufacturing facility construction (March 2023)

Archer eVTOL
Photo Credit: Archer Aviation

Archer Aviation Inc.  (San Jose, Calif., U.S.), a company specializing in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has commenced the construction of its manufacturing facility. This facility will be crucial in producing its eVTOL air taxis designed for urban transportation. The construction marks a significant step forward in Archer’s efforts to bring its electric aircraft to market, contributing to the development of sustainable and efficient transportation solutions for urban mobility. Read the full news piece.

6. Hexagon Purus opens new U.S. facility to manufacture composite hydrogen tanks (February 2023)

Hexagon Purus new U.S. facility
Photo Credit: Hexagon Group

Hexagon Purus, based in Oslo, Norway, is advancing zero-emission energy storage solutions to combat climate change. A significant step in this endeavor was the inauguration of its new manufacturing facility in Westminster, Maryland, on Jan. 26, 2022. This facility specializes in Type IV composite cylinders for storing compressed gas hydrogen (CGH2). The company aims to fulfill the rising need for zero-emission mobility and infrastructure systems globally, aligning with increased commitments by governments and industries to address the climate crisis. Read the full news piece.

4. Alef Aeronautics earns FAA approval to launch flying car (July 2023)

Alef Aeronautics FFA approval
Photo Credit: Alef Aeronautics

Alef Aeronautics (Santa Mateo, CA)—a sustainable mobility firm— is creating a composite-focused flying car — a drivable vehicle capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL). Alef has recently obtained special airworthiness certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Read the full news piece

 2. Vertical Aerospace eVTOL prototype goes down during uncrewed test flight (August 2023)

Vertical Aerospace eVTOL
Photo Credit: Vertical Aerospace

On Aug. 9, Vertical Aerospace (London, U.K.) conducted an unmanned test flight of its VX4 eVTOL aircraft at Cotswold Airport. Reports indicate the prototype experienced a crash at around 20 feet altitude, showing apparent damage to its wing, as seen in social media images. The company confirmed it was remotely piloted, and fortunately, there were no injuries. Read the full news piece.

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