Higher voltage systems will be found on nearly 10 million to 13 million vehicles globally within the next ten years, and will drive increased use of plastics. According to Emerging Developments In Automotive 42-Volt Systems, a new study by BRG Townsend, Inc, the shift to 42-volt systems will ultimately result in 40% greater consumption of engineering thermoplastics (ETPs) in affected components. “The introduction of vehicles that incorporate 42-volts and other high voltage systems will occur at differing rates depending on geographic region,” according to Frank May, director – Automotive Practice. “In one country the driver may be fuel consumption. In another, it may be increasing concern for controlling fuel emissions. In yet another, market demand for additional ‘creature comforts’ may provide the primary motivation for change.” The study represents a benchmark look at the implications of 42-volt systems with respect to materials. It identifies and evaluates factors affecting design decisions, material selection and production planning out through the year 2010.