What impact will EVs have on the iron casting and sand casting industries?

The rapid proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) is bringing about structural changes in the global automotive industry and significantly impacting the entire parts supply chain, especially the iron casting industry. As internal combustion engines are gradually replaced, the role of iron castings in the automotive industry for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles is entering a phase of contraction and diversification.

How EVs are impacting the iron casting and sand casting industries

In gasoline and diesel vehicles, iron castings, particularly sand castings, have been used for key components such as engine housings, cylinder heads, transmission cases, and pump bodies, supporting mass production and stable demand for many years. These components were a significant source of revenue for foundries.

However, as internal combustion engines are no longer required in EVs, the number of parts has decreased, and vehicle structures have changed. Furthermore, with an emphasis on weight reduction, lightweight materials such as aluminum and manufacturing methods like die casting are increasingly adopted. With the rise of EVs, demand for conventional cast parts has significantly decreased, and the relative importance of iron castings and sand casting in the automotive industry has declined.

However, this does not mean the iron casting industry will disappear; it indicates a shift in its position within the automotive industry (passenger cars and light commercial vehicles), where it was previously central.

Future Directions for Iron Casting and Sand Casting in the EV Era

While impacted by EVs, iron castings, particularly sand casting, are still believed to have certain market opportunities. By selecting appropriate market segments, companies can expect stable demand in the medium to long term.

As the iron casting industry faces a turning point, DISOCO is formulating a medium- to long-term strategy and working to strengthen its production capacity and expand its areas of expertise. Leveraging its sand casting technology and experience cultivated over many years, along with a stable quality control system and flexible production capabilities, DISOCO is establishing a system to meet diverse needs in industrial machinery, equipment, infrastructure, and other sectors.

Companies looking for a manufacturing partner for cast iron parts produced by sand casting are encouraged to contact DISOCO.