What materials can be used for body panels in a Space Frame construction?

In Space Frame construction, the use of body panels typically involves materials that provide a balance of strength, weight savings, and ease of manufacturing. Plastic and steel are indeed complementary materials for body panels. Steel is known for its strength and durability, making it a reliable choice for structural components, while plastic can be lightweight and corrosion-resistant, which helps in reducing the overall weight of the vehicle, thus improving performance and fuel efficiency.

Moreover, plastic can be molded into complex shapes, allowing for more design versatility in body panel construction. This combination takes advantage of the strengths of both materials: steel provides the necessary rigidity and impact resistance, while plastic contributes to weight reduction and potentially lower production costs.

Other options include materials like aluminum or fiberglass, which also might be used in various automotive applications. However, the combination of plastic and steel aligns more closely with the principles of modern Space Frame design, where both structural integrity and weight efficiency are paramount.