SEMA 2019: Anderson Composites Turns Carbon Into Performance

SEMA 2019: Anderson Composites Turns Carbon Into Performance

When it comes to modifications that combine form and function, not much compares to carbon-fiber components. Besides reducing weight, carbon-fiber parts offer a unique aesthetic that many find attractive. And, if you happen to be the 0.1-percent who don’t like the contrast of carbon fiber, paint on carbon fiber is still far lighter than paint on steel.

When it comes to carbon-fiber components for late-model muscle cars, there is one name that always tops the list of fit and finish — Anderson Composites. At the 2019 SEMA Show, Anderson had a top-of-the-line performance vehicle from each of the Big-Three, all outfitted with the latest and greatest carbon components from Anderson.

Anderson has a foolproof formula on how to create a new part. “We start with an OE part and look at how we can improve it,” said Zach Bohn of Anderson Composites. “A lot of that improvement has to do with aerodynamics and heat extraction. We’re also taking 30- to 40-percent out of the weight of the part.”

Anderson offers two different types of carbon fiber products. The first type is “wet” carbon, which is vacuum molded and impregnated with liquid resin, leaving a glossy, clearcoat-like finish. The other method is “dry” carbon, which uses the intense pressure and heat of an autoclave to form the part, leaving a matte, dull finish.

“Most people like the matte look of the dry, but like the price of the wet,” said Bohn. “If you’re dead serious on taking weight out of your vehicle, you’re going to go the dry route. It is more expensive, but you end up with a stronger material with the least amount of weight possible.”

So you might be wondering how much weight we’re talking in real pounds and ounces. “We took over 150-pounds out of our Dodge Demon with our parts,” revealed Bohn. “We can normally take up to 50-pounds out of a car, depending on the model. That’s primarily from the trunk, the hood, the roof, and the doors. Those are where the biggest weight savings are.”

Whether you’re into carbon fiber components to give your car a new look or because you want to put your car on a diet, Anderson Composites accomplishes both with a level of competence difficult to match.

Typically Anderson Composites needs 60 to 90 days to create a new product, but the 12 parts on this pre-production 2020 GT500 were designed in just 40 days.

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About the author

Greg Acosta

Greg has spent nineteen years and counting in automotive publishing, with most of his work having a very technical focus. Always interested in how things work, he enjoys sharing his passion for automotive technology with the reader.
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