What is the tensile strength range for advanced high-strength steel (AHSS)?

• A. Between 20-40 ksi
• B. Between 39-102 ksi
• C. Between 63-145 ksi
• D. Between 100-200 ksi

Answer: (C)

Advanced high-strength steels cover a wide range of tensile strengths designed for lighter, safer vehicle structures. In typical automotive AHSS grades, the tensile strength spans from about 63 ksi up to about 145 ksi (roughly 435 MPa to 1000 MPa). This broad range reflects the different microstructures within AHSS, from dual-phase and transformation-induced plasticity types at the lower end to martensitic grades at the higher end, all aimed at balancing formability with strength. Therefore, the range that best represents AHSS tensile strength is around 63–145 ksi. The other ranges either sit too low to represent AHSS or extend beyond what is commonly used in automotive AHSS applications.