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Alloy wheels and its development in car modifications is a long and productive history. The first alloy wheels were made from magnesium rather than aluminum (hence the name "Mag Wheels") and were designed for the racing circuits. However, a critical problem arose with the use of magnesium, if it catches on fire, say due to an accident or wreck, it cannot be extinguished and will burn and burn. Needless to say alternative metals were chosen and aluminum was the next and best choice. The reason for the invention of alloy wheels is the increased weight savings versus steel wheels. In the world of racing, any weight savings means an increase in usable horsepower and so was born the aluminum alloy wheel.
Alloy wheels made it from the track to the street by way of car owners shopping at automotive performance stores and basically "falling in love" with the beauty and simplicity of the product. Not only were there different alloy wheel designs and styles, but shapes and sizes too. A car owner could suddenly "personalize" their car just by changing the alloy wheels. Even if no other modifications were made to the vehicle, alloy wheels would still distinguish it from other similar cars with steel wheels.
Automotive manufacturers began using alloy wheels on their models when fuel economy started creeping into the subconscious of their potential buyers. The alloy wheels offered a weight savings to the alloy wheels manufacturer which equated to higher fuel economy in their cars. Plus, alloy wheels also greatly enhanced the appearance of their cars. In fact, the more expensive and optioned vehicles will now come with alloy wheels as part of an upgraded package. Steel wheels are still used but only on the less expensive vehicles.
- The younger generation (Gen X and Y) began wanting to customize their plain and boring looking vehicles;
- Computer technology became a usable tool.
In the late 1990’s, young drivers wanted their cars to stand out from the crowd, partly because automotive manufacturers had gone the way of making all vehicles look fairly similar (in order to save on production costs) and partly to express them selves. Adding alloy wheels was a relatively inexpensive way to remedy both problems.
With the advent of computer generated machines like CNC and CAD programs, alloy wheel manufacturers could become more elaborate and intricate in both design and construction thus bringing the costs of manufacturing the more elegant forged alloy wheels and billet alloy wheels. In fact, many suppliers will offer their clients the ability to custom design alloy wheels in order to insure individuality and personality. Alloy wheels can now spin while standing still and even appear to be motionless when moving. Basically, alloy wheels have become the easiest and one of the least expensive ways for the masses to enhance the curb appeal and beauty of their car.
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