The latest thing in automotive news is the use of military-grade aluminum in the construction of cars and trucks. Proponents of all-aluminum vehicles say they are lighter in weight, and will offer greater fuel efficiency. The vehicles are also quieter and will not rust.

How do they handle a collision?

Very well, according to the Aluminum Association. Aluminum can absorb twice as much crash energy as steel. In a collision, aluminum will fold predictably, allowing front and back crumple zones to absorb the impact, not the occupants.

The all-new aluminum vehicle Ford F150 launched in 2015 and has continued its long-running streak as America’s best-selling truck. Brian Shephard, sales manager at Mathews Ford Oregon, says, “It’s amazing, what they’ve done.” Offering four different engines, from a 2.7 liter V6 Ecoboost to a 5-liter V8, maximizs the fuel economy.

Where do you take your aluminum F150 in case of a collision?

You need a collision center equipped and certified to repair aluminum vehicles and that has technicians specially trained to weld and paint these vehicles.

“We have installed state of the art equipment,” says Dan Steinhauser, manager of the collision center at Mathews Ford, “as well as a contamination-free environment to work on the vehicles. Customers can leave their car or truck with us and we will handle everything so they don’t have to.”

Mathews Ford recently opened its new, 20,000 square foot collision center, using green technology in the lighting, heating and insulation. The new structure meets Ford Motor Company certification guidelines for aluminum vehicle repair. A heated drive-up service area will keep customers out of the weather, and a waiting room will make it a comfortable experience.

It’s your choice where to take your vehicle to be repaired, not the insurance company’s.

For more information on the new F150 and Mathews Ford’s impressive collision center, log on to buymathewsford.com

First Published February 8, 2016, 5:00 a.m.