The expectations of vehicle customers with respect to more functionality and efficiency are increasing the demands upon material technology. New systems for more efficient combustion engines, electric and hydrogen propulsion, comfort and safety must be integrated into a harmonised and reliable concept. New materials are subjected to an ever greater spectrum of requirements, in order to fulfil all requisites of designated constructions with multiple functions. Through analysis of current constructions it is apparent that the separation of function or mixed material construction leads to interesting lightweight structure solutions. On the basis of examples of vehicle construction, the advantages and disadvantages of the separation and unification of function are discussed.