In a statement, ArcelorMittal said samples of its press-hardenable Ductibor 1000 are now available for qualification testing in North America. Meanwhile, its Usibor 2000, the newer, stronger version of its aluminum-silicon-coated, press-hardenable steel, will be available for North American qualification testing in early 2017. Both steels already are available for testing in Europe.

Also, the company said it is expanding its MartINsite line of martensitic steels, adding two new grades – M1700 and M2000. Both will be available for qualification testing in mid-2017, and commercial production will start in 2018.

“MartINsite is a very strong family of steels which are perfect for anti-intrusion parts such as bumper and door beams,” Brian Aranha, ArcelorMittal’s global automotive executive vice president, said in a statement.

Additionally, the company is expanding the offerings under its family of third-generation, advanced high-strength steel.

Through investments in its AM/NS joint venture plant in Alabama, the company plans to offer cold-rolled and corrosion-resistant versions of that steel, branded as Fortiform in Europe. The coated and cold-rolled versions will be offered in two grades, and samples are to be available for qualification testing by the middle of 2017.

“The launch of these steels aligns with our Action 2020 program, a strategic roadmap that aims to achieve targeted financial improvements for the company by 2020,” Aranha said.  

“Action 2020 efforts include cost optimization and steel shipment volume increases, as well as an improved portfolio of high added value products. These products ensure ArcelorMittal is best positioned to meet customer requirements via a strong technical and product portfolio.”