Why not make wooden cars?

Question

Really, why don't we make wooden cars. Wouldn't they be cheaper, lighter, spend less gas ect. Of course, we could surround engine with metal and have metal parts, but the body should be made of wood. A lot painting, and it should last a decade. They would be cheaper, so we could change them more often.

What do you think about it?

Answer 1

Back in the 80's there was a company that built a wood car called the "AFRICAR" and if I remember correctly it used a Citroen drive train and a marine plywood body. Very tough and durable plus easily repaired but our GUVMENT' would not allow this into the USA. God forbid we step on the toes of the giants at GM /FORD /DODGE ETC. How dare you even think of building a better mouse trap for gods sake, what kind of communist are you ?????

Answer 2

Ya, but if you have to put metal around the engine to protect it, you might as well make it all out of metal. Wooden cars probably wouldn't pass crash safety tests. Good idea though.

Answer 3

Auto industry has been there... done that.... Most cars made in the 20's and 30's had wood coach work or framing. Even into the 40's a few auto makers made "Woodies".

If it was economical or safe they'd still be making them. Wouldn't meet crash test standards, structurally too flexible, problems with dry rot, water damage.... hungry termites????

Answer 4

This is a terrible idea. Do you have any idea how many trees will need to be chopped down to make millions of cars?!

Answer 5

That's stupid! wood is to heavy and cars would cost more to make,you can only mold wood by hand carving .

Answer 6

you cant even get people to change oil once a year and u want them to paint a car every year..lol..crack pop idea...