Automakers are changing with the times. Climate protection is the topic dominating public debate and political dialogue. By 2012, the European Union intends to limit the CO₂ emissions of new cars from 173 to 130 grams per kilometer driven. So the developers clearly have their work cut out for them. After all, even environmentally conscious car buyers don’t want to sacrifice comfort, safety, or driving enjoyment. This is where modern chemicals from LANXESS can help. New high-performance plastics are making cars lighter and more aerodynamic, and new chemicals are boosting the performance of batteries. New types of rubber are being used to make tires that are safer and contribute to improved fuel economy. Above all, chemicals are helping automakers to take on one of the greatest challenges of our time: climate protection.