In vehicles, graphene – which is lightweight and incredibly strong – will reduce sound inside the cabin and creating a quieter ride. Graphene has recently generated some interest in the automotive industry for paint, polymer and battery applications.

“The breakthrough here is not in the material, but in how we are using it,” said Debbie Mielewski, Ford senior technical leader, sustainability and emerging materials. “We are able to use a very small amount, less than a half percent, to help us achieve significant enhancements in durability, sound resistance and weight reduction – applications that others have not focused on.”