A study commissioned by the International Zinc Association has suggested that automobile manufacturers increase the adoption of 'galvanised steel' to ensure enhanced durability of cars.
The study, led by former IIT Bombay Department of Metallurgy Engineering department professor Anand Khanna, said there could be 20 per cent higher risk of death due to rusty cars and stressed the importance of protecting steel against corrosion.
It said Indians spend nearly 12 hours more of their time behind the wheels on an average every day leading to higher risk of life.
About 500 cars between five and 10 year old across hatchback and sedan segments and based on average Indian family usage were used for the study.
The findings emphasised the need for increased adoption of galvanised steel in automotive industry, especially in coastal areas, to increase the durability of cars.
International Zinc Association consultant Dough Rourke said one of the underlying insights that emerged from the study was the need for increased galvanisation of automotive parts.
"The study brings into light the striking difference in galvanisation of body parts in cars manufactured for domestic consumers which stands at 15-30 per cent when the same stands at 70 per cent for those cars shipped out of India", he said.
"The study is an eye opener for car owners in the city as it clearly indicates the causes for imperfection that arise owing to climatic conditions," Khanna said.
He expressed confidence that Chennai being an auto manufacturing hub, the companies will consider the insights from the study.
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