According to TK Chand, Chairman of India's National Aluminium Company, replacing 1 kilogram of heavy metal with aluminium reduces emissions by 22 kilograms during a vehicle's lifecycle.

His predictions are in line with other industry experts. Even ArcelorMittal, the world's biggest steel producer, estimates that "reducing the weight of the vehicle by around 12kg saves one gram of СО₂ equivalent emissions per kilometre". As such, the volume share of aluminium in cars manufactured for the US market is now expected to rise from 6.6% in 2015 to 26.6% in 2025.

For example, Ford's flagship truck and best-selling model in the US for the past 32 years, the F-150 boasts an all-new high-strength steel frame coupled with a high-strength aluminium-alloy body that saves up to 315 kg compared to its predecessor. As a result, fuel consumption has decreased (from 13mpg to 19mpg for the 2.7 litre engine).

However, it's not just carmakers that have to step up their game. Leading aluminium producers have also called for the implementation of "green" standards across the industry.

Why? Because if aluminium cars enable lower СО₂ emissions, "more pollution could have been caused by the company producing that metal, which damages the idea of clean vehicles", according to United Co. Rusal's deputy chief executive officer.

In this regard, it is vital to ensure the use of clean energy such as hydropower for aluminium production, a development that would guarantee a sustainable and environmentally friendly aluminium industry.

With an integrated approach that takes into account both consumer preference and market expectations, the possibility of driving fuel-efficient cars at no cost to the environment is within grasp.