MSE and the Automobile The automobile is perhaps the perfect everyday application for advances in materials science and engineering (MSE). A car is a complex device - there are nearly 15,000 parts in a passenger car - with dozens of very different systems present to make it function (make it drive, stop, have electricity, be safe, comfortable, and durable). These numerous systems give the car many opportunities to take advantage of improvements offered by MSE. New fabrication techniques can make parts lighter, stronger, easier to manufacture, more durable, and less expensive - all translating into benefits for the owner. Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company Shown above are certain highlighted parts of the auto. Click on the label of the picture to learn how MSE is helping to better engineer today's auto parts - making your life safer and less expensive. Site related questions or comments? Contact crc@tms.org last modified: