**Figure 2.**

*Schematic diagram showing varied applications of magnesium (Mg).*

Years later, commercial vehicles such as Volkswagen Beetle started using magnesiumcontaining about 20kg (44.09 lbs) of total weight. The interest in magnesium use in automotive applications has increased over the past ten years due to the increasing environmental and legislative influences [7, 8]. Magnesium contributing to increased fuel efficiency, accelerated performance, and sustainability has led to their use in vehicles. Many automotive companies have found magnesium to be a suitable replacement for steel and aluminum, for their products (**Figure 4**). Audi, Daimler (Mercedes-Benz), Ford, Jaguar, Fiat, and Kia Motors Corporation are just a few. Magnesium is currently used in gearbox, front end and IP beams, steering column, driver's airbag housings, steering wheels, seat frames, and fuel tank covers (AJ62A (98.8–91.8% Mg) and Magnox (Al 80)). [6].

*Introductory Chapter: Magnesium - A Perspective DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.104912*

### **Figure 3.**

*Examples of application for Mg alloys in (a) Boeing 747, wings, and seat components. (b) Aircraft door lock set made of magnesium alloy [7] (***c***) B-52s fighter-jet (wheel bearing) [6].*

### **Figure 4.**

*Examples of applications for magnesium alloys in the automotive industry [8].*

Using magnesium in automotive applications helps more than just weight savings. For a number of years, the desire to identify challenges, search for solutions, and explore new opportunities regarding the use of magnesium in vehicles has been growing. Magnesium usage on the front end provides a lower overall mass for the car. It allows for shifting the center of gravity towards the rear of the car, improving handling and turning capabilities. In addition, frequencies that reduce vibration and overall noise can be achieved by tuning magnesium-containing parts. A single cast piece of magnesium is preferably used to replace steel components in vehicles, thus providing material with additional strength and allowing housings to be cast into place. This castability involves the merits of low manufacturing cost and less tooling and gauges.
