Pirelli has launched the first standard production tire for the global market containing over 70% bio-based and recycled materials, including Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified natural rubber, which is used to ensure responsible management of the natural rubber supply chain. This certification is projected to cover all natural rubber used in Pirelli's factories in Europe by 2026. Specifically developed for JLR, the newly launched Pirelli P Zero tire will be offered for selected 22-inc...

The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has developed an innovative electric motor coil using carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The coil does not use copper and therefore is lighter in weight.  Lightweighting is a crucial technical challenge for future transportation technologies, such as electric vehicles, drones and spacecraft, as it enhances battery efficiency and extends range while contributing to sustainability by reducing carbon emissions. Electric motors, which are integ...

Forvia’s sustainable materials subsidiary, Materi'act, has unveiled NAFILean Vision, a groundbreaking advancement in sustainable biocomposites for injection technology in the automotive industry. Building on the success of NAFILean-R, a recyclable biocomposite made from recycled plastics reinforced with 20% hemp fibers, this new material family not only meets stringent performance standards but also enhances aesthetic quality by making biomass visible, setting a new benchmark for eco-frie...

MAHLE has completed the first year of its operations at the Global Biomobility Center, which is located at its Tech Center in Jundiaí, São Paulo. The center was established to utilize MAHLE's expertise and partner network in South America to support the global development of sustainable mobility solutions, focusing on biofuels and biomaterials. During its first year, the center has initiated eight projects in collaboration with customers and research institutes. It is actively monitori...

Autoneum developed a new impact protection plate for electric vehicle batteries made from thermoplastic composite material. This lightweight component provides protection against impact, fire and corrosion while also offering thermal insulation, which contributes to improved energy management and longer driving range. The transformation toward electrified mobility demands new shielding technologies for battery protection, and Autoneum's solution is designed to meet these needs with its high s...

Shanghai-based electric-car maker Nio's subbrand Onvo has released driving range information for its flagship sport utility vehicle, the L90, to highlight the performance of its battery performance. The Onvo L90 comes with a standard battery pack capacity of 85 kWh, offering a China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) driving range of about 570 km to 605 km per charge. The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version of the Onvo L90 offers a driving range of up to 605 km with a consumption rate ...

Gestamp, a Spain-based company specializing in the design and manufacture of metal components for the automotive industry, is participating in the Automotive Engineering Exposition 2025 being held from May 21 to May 23 in Yokohama, Japan. The company is using the event to reaffirm its commitment to the Japanese market and showcase its technological innovations aimed at reducing vehicle weight, enhancing structural performance and optimizing production processes. Gestamp emphasizes t...

JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. has commenced production of its new passenger car tire, the UX Royale Green, at its Chennai plant in Tamil Nadu, India, using renewable and recycled raw materials. This marks the debut of India's first passenger car tire made with ISCC Plus certified sustainable materials. The certification, a part of the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) framework, ensures the traceability of responsibly sourced inputs in the value chain. This initia...

Gestamp, a Spain-based company specializing in engineered metal components for the automotive industry, is showcasing its latest technological solutions in products and materials at Auto Shanghai 2025, taking place in the National Center for Exhibition and Convention (NCEC), in Shanghai. These solutions are designed to improve the strength and durability of vehicle components while enabling the production of lighter and safer vehicles. “At Auto Shanghai 2025, we are showcasing our...

Trelleborg Sealing Solutions has introduced the Stefa HiSpin EV40, an advanced elastomer radial shaft seal specifically engineered for high-speed electric vehicle motors. This seal is designed to operate efficiently at high surface speeds, setting a new benchmark for low-friction sealing and offering exceptional performance and durability in EV applications. With EVs pushing the limits of engineering, the Stefa HiSpin EV40 addresses the increasing demand for reliable and efficient s...

At the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show, Forvia is set to present a range of innovative technologies aimed at enhancing mobility experiences. Among the innovations to be showcased is the Saphir, a midsize low-body car segment featuring AI-driven advancements designed for comfort, efficiency and freedom during travel. The exhibit will also introduce groundbreaking electronics such as the Electric fuse iConF and the Radar ForWave7e, both by Forvia Hella, which contribute to vehicle safety and autonomou...

Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, based in Weinheim, Germany, has introduced a new sealing material designed for e-mobility applications, offering an alternative to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-containing thermoplastics and FKM seals. This material, processed through injection molding, aims to enhance sealing performance, ensure battery longevity and comply with tightening environmental standards. As the electric vehicle market expands, the demand for batteries that charge faste...

Magna will present its advanced vehicle technologies and high-performance parts and systems at Auto Shanghai 2025, scheduled to be held from April 23 to May 2 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in Shanghai. The Canadian supplier will display its strategic roadmap for the future of mobility at its booth 2BC011 in Hall 2.2. Magna will host a press conference on April 24. Magna’s display will focus on four key areas of sustainable innovations, advanced driver assistance sy...

Ricardo, a global strategic, environmental and engineering consulting company, has developed an innovative electric propulsion module named Alumotor, designed to address the environmental impact of materials used in electric motors, particularly focusing on sustainable mobility. This development was part of a consortium funded by Innovate UK and led by Ricardo. The Alumotor represents a significant move toward sustainability by being a rare earth metal-free synchronous reluctance motor, disti...

Ennovi, a company specializing in mobility electrification solutions, announced the introduction of a groundbreaking adhesive-free lamination technology designed to improve the assembly of cell contacting systems (CCS) for various battery cell configurations, such as prismatic, cylindrical and pouch. This technology showcases a patent-pending process that stands out by eliminating the need for adhesives in bonding insulation material foils and current collectors within the CCS. The method not...

Hindustan Zinc Ltd. has introduced its new zinc die-casting alloys — HZDA 3 and HZDA 5 — along with the low-carbon zinc product EcoZen at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo, held in New Delhi, Autocar Professional reported Jan. 21. These innovations mark the company's efforts to enlarge India's automotive materials portfolio and address environmental concerns with a product boasting a 75% lower carbon footprint than traditional zinc. The development of HZDA 3 and HZDA 5 is a stra...

Gestamp, a leading global automotive technology company specialized in the design, development and production of highly engineered metal components, is showcasing its innovative product lineup at the ongoing Bharat Mobility Global Expo in New Delhi, the company announced Jan. 20. As carmakers are increasingly focusing on electrification, connectivity, sustainability and safety, the demand for lightweight, eco-friendly materials that can offer top safety standards is also surging. This of...

BASF has introduced Ultramid T7000, a new portfolio of polyamide (PA) and polyphthalamide (PPA) blends, designed as an advanced metal replacement for structural parts that are often exposed to moisture. This innovation is distinguished by its better, more constant mechanical properties compared to PA66, particularly in terms of stiffness and strength in both dry and humid conditions. The inclusion of PPA in the blend significantly reduces water absorption, enhancing dimensional stability and ...

Autoneum is enhancing its sustainable product offerings for commercial vehicles with the introduction of new polyester-based side and rear wall panels. These panels utilize Propylat PET, a technology that is eco-friendly and made of 100% polyester, offering a fully recyclable material option compared to the less recyclable composite or thermoset resin panels traditionally used in trucks. This choice not only supports better recycling possibilities but also improves acoustic and thermal manage...

Researchers from Pusan National University, South Korea, have made a significant breakthrough by developing a hybrid simulation model that combines machine learning and physical principles for predicting the fatigue life of magnesium alloys, a key material in the lightweight automotive and aerospace manufacturing sectors. This new model, which offers a solution to the challenge of accurately predicting when magnesium alloys will fail under various stress conditions, represents an advancement ove...

AGC will showcase its advanced materials and solutions at the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas. The Japan-based glass supplier will present its solutions in three areas: Next-Gen Mobility, Next-Gen Semiconductor and Next-Gen Energy. AGC will be participating at the CES 2025 for the third consecutive year.  Under Next-Gen Mobility, AGC will showcase a future cockpit where the texture, esthetics and functionality of glass are seamlessly integrated to deliver ...

Highland Plastics has announced the launch of Kelvinite 2100, a halogen-free, flame-retardant polypropylene (HFFR PP), in response to China's export ban on antimony. This new material is presented as a sustainable and superior alternative for automotive suppliers and industries that previously relied on antimony-containing flame-retardant polymers. Kelvinite 2100, which is produced in the US and offers a four-week lead time, aims to address challenges by eliminating sourcing issues relat...

Kobe Steel has unveiled a new product, Kobenable Aluminum, aimed at significantly reducing CO2 emissions associated with its customers' products. This initiative targets Scope 3 emissions, which account for a substantial portion of aluminum products' overall emissions. The product employs the mass-balance method, allowing the allocation of CO2 reduction benefits from the use of low-CO2 aluminum materials to specific products. Initially, this offering is limited to aluminum-rolled products pro...

Amsted Automotive, renowned for its innovative metallurgy technology, showcased a broad range of metal-shaping technology at the 2024 MEMA OE Conference in Novi, Michigan. The company is making strides in the automotive industry, particularly in the development of electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). The company is set to enhance vehicle efficiency, packaging and sustainability through its award-winning powder metal and advanced metal-shaping technologies. The comp...

In a press release dated Nov. 7, Cooper Standard announced that it has expanded its range of sustainable innovations with the introduction of the FlexiCore Thermoplastic Body Seal. This new product aims to transform the automotive sealing industry by offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional metal carriers in vehicle body seals. The FlexiCore seal consists of 100% thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) and polypropylene (PP) materials, making it fully recyclable and lightweight. The compan...

Hankook has successfully commenced mass production of tires using three types of International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) Plus-certified carbon black, derived from end-of-life tire pyrolysis oil. This development is a result of the collaborative efforts within the Tire-to-Tire Circular Economy Model consortium, which includes Hankook and 12 other South Korean companies and institutions. Established in November 2023, the consortium aims to produce new tires from end-of-li...

In a press release dated Nov. 5, LG Innotek announced that it has developed a high-performance eco-friendly magnet, which boasts the world's strongest magnetic force without utilizing any heavy rare earth (HRE) metals. LG Innotek has collaborated with the Korea Institute of Materials Science to develop a groundbreaking multicomponent alloy that replaces HRE metals, leading to the creation of this new magnet. This product, notable for its lack of expensive HRE metals such as terbium (Tb...

The Soteria Battery Innovation Group (BIG) Consortium, headquartered in Greenville, SC, has developed a plastic film-based technology for lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries that significantly enhances their safety. This innovation, which uses metallized films instead of traditional metallic current collectors, can reduce the risk of battery fires by over 90%. Amy Brinson, vice president of Soteria Global Consortium, is set to present a case study on these advancements at FabBatt, part of the...

Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, recognized as the global market leader in sealing solutions, is enhancing the development of in-wheel motors (IWM) for electric vehicles by offering a patented sealing technology. This innovation caters to original equipment manufacturers and electric-motor producers across a spectrum ranging from passenger cars to commercial vehicles. IWMs present a series of benefits for EVs, including the potential elimination or repositioning of components such as transmi...

Gestamp, a global automotive supplier, has showcased its cutting-edge innovations aimed at addressing the automotive industry's growing demand for electrification, connectivity, sustainability and safety at the 12th International Suppliers Fair (IZB) in Wolfsburg from Oct. 22 to 24. The company emphasized its commitment to developing technologies and products that meet top safety standards, reduce CO2 emissions and maintain cost efficiency, fostering the production of lighter, safer vehicles wit...

Kirchhoff Automotive is set to showcase its latest advancements in lightweight construction and safety at the International Suppliers Fair (IZB) in Wolfsburg, Germany's Allerpark from Oct. 22 to 24. Operating under the theme MAKING.MOBILITY.SAFE and emphasizing Empowering Partnerships, the company will present the outcomes of collaborative efforts with Volkswagen AG (VW). This event will serve as a platform for VW suppliers, board members, purchasers and developers to discuss innovations...

In a press release dated Oct. 11, Aichi Steel Corp. announced that it has initiated sample sales of their new product, the Nd anisotropic bonded magnet known as MAGFINE, from September. Aichi Steel has claimed that MAGFINE is the world’s strongest anisotropic bonded magnet. This innovative product has undergone a significant enhancement, specifically in its corrosion resistance, through the application of a proprietary coating on each grain of magnet powder. This method has shown a not...

OQ Chemicals has introduced Oxvolt S221, a new cosolvent for water-based electrode coatings designed to enhance the production of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries with crack-free surfaces, the Germany-based chemical company said in a press release on Sept. 16. This innovation is particularly significant for the automotive industry, which needs high-quality, environmentally friendly batteries for electric vehicles. Oxvolt S221 is designed for use with high-energy graphite anodes and has received...

Dürr has unveiled its new GigaCoater, a pioneering simultaneous two-sided coating machine designed to enhance battery manufacturing efficiency. Announced Sept. 27 in Southfield, Mich., this innovation aims to modernize battery-cell original equipment manufacturers' production by coupling broader substrate capabilities with quicker coating speeds, ensuring automotive-grade quality for widths up to 1,200 millimeters (mm). The introduction of the GigaCoater marks a significant advancement ...

Antolin has launched persiSKIN AUTO, a sustainable and plant-based trim material designed to revolutionize the automotive interior. This new product was developed through a collaborative effort with the Spanish startup PersiSKIN, with the goal to provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional animal leather and synthetic coverings commonly used in vehicle interiors. PersiSKIN AUTO stands out due to its significant content of persimmon waste, utilizing about 50% of the fruit's harvest that...

Asahi Kasei has launched LASTAN, a new flame-retardant and highly flexible nonwoven fabric designed to improve electric vehicle battery safety, the Japanese supplier said in a press release on Sept. 19. This innovative material could be an excellent alternative to traditional thermal runaway protection materials, finding its applications in top covers, busbar protection sleeves and other components within the EV battery pack. LASTAN, made by air-baking a special acrylic fiber, boasts of high ...

Constellium has announced the achievements of the ALIVE (ALuminium Intensive Vehicle Enclosures) research project, a £15 million initiative cofunded by UK government subsidies through the Advanced Propulsion Center (APC). Initiated in 2020, the project was led by Constellium's University Technology Center (UTC) at Brunel University London and aimed to create structural aluminum battery enclosures for electric vehicles. The collaborative effort included six industrial partners — BMW, Conste...

At the upcoming Fakuma 2024, a premier trade event for industrial plastics processing held Oct. 15–19 in Friedrichshafen, Germany, Japanese technology company Asahi Kasei will showcase its diverse range of material solutions. The highlights of its exhibit encompass polymer solutions aimed at enhancing thermal management in electric vehicles, a new thermoplastic elastomer designed for the recyclability of automotive interior parts, and a cellulose nanofiber composite tailored for high-performan...

The Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU has embarked on the COOLBat joint research project with numerous partners to innovate battery enclosures for electric vehicles to be lighter and more environmentally friendly. The project aims to reduce the CO2 emissions from manufacturing these enclosures by 15% through the integration of individual systems, utilization of new heat-conductive materials and the application of bio-based flame retardant coatings, thereby optimiz...

Škoda has used advanced sustainable interior materials, including Recytitan and Technofil, in its Elroq electric car, the automaker said in a press release Aug. 20. The seats and upholstery fabrics are made from recycled plastic bottles, and for the first time, recycled post-consumer clothing. These are carefully reprocessed into high-quality new yarns and fabric for the Elroq. The Elroq offers four design selections — studio, loft, lodge and suite — each featuring a higher proportion of...

LG Chem has developed an eco-friendly, perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-free flame-retardant polycarbonate/acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (PC/ABS) material that has been made from recycled plastics, the company announced in a press release on Aug. 12. The new flame-retardant plastics have received the V-0 rating in the standard flame-retardant test UL 94 for UL certification in the US. The V-0 rating represents the highest level of flame-retardant performance in the industry, requi...

AGC Inc., a leading global manufacturer of glass, chemicals and high-tech materials, has announced the development of a groundbreaking technology for the production of fluoropolymers without the use of surfactants. This technology is set to ensure a continuous and stable supply of fluoropolymers, crucial for advancing a carbon-neutral and digital society. Traditionally, fluoropolymers have been produced through emulsion polymerization, which employs fluorinated surfactants as polymerization a...

Hindustan Zinc Ltd., recognized as India's largest and the world's second-largest integrated zinc producer, has announced the launch of EcoZen, marking a significant development as Asia's first low-carbon zinc brand. With its operations based in Mumbai, India, Hindustan Zinc has obtained certification for EcoZen through a life-cycle assessment (LCA) conducted by a global sustainability firm, which highlighted that EcoZen's carbon footprint is less than one metric ton per metric ton of zinc produ...

General Motors’ Cadillac brand has entered into a collaboration with MycoWorks to create new material for use in high-performance automotive interiors, leveraging the renewable root structure of mushrooms, known as mycelium, and other bio-based ingredients. The collaboration aims to produce a new class of material that could serve as an alternative to leather, emphasizing sustainability without compromising the luxury aesthetic associated with Cadillac. The material, developed using MycoWor...

BASF has collaborated with Mercedes-Benz to develop an impact absorber made using its polyamide particle from Ultramid Expand, the Germany-based chemical company said in a press release. Mercedes-Benz used the impact absorber in its VISION EQXX electric car concept. As name suggests, an impact absorber is used in a vehicle to absorb and distribute the forces arising in a crash and transfer them to the vehicle body. Automakers generally use metal structures for this, but they are very complex ...

Autoneum has introduced a fully recyclable 100% polyester trunk side trim, advancing the automotive industry's shift toward a more circular economy. This new component is part of Autoneum's portfolio of sustainable monomaterial products and utilizes the company's Pure technology Propylat PET. Autoneum has made this eco-friendly 100% polyester trunk trim available across Europe, North America and China, demonstrating its commitment to promoting sustainability in the automotive sector on a global ...

The mechanical and plant engineering firm Dürr has announced the development of the Eco QPower, a sustainable energy management system designed for automotive paint shops, which boasts a potential to cut down energy requirements and CO2 emissions by more than 19%. The new system also enables a 21% reduction in energy consumption during the paint shop's operational phase due to more efficient energy use, facilitated by the integration of heat pumps, water circuits and smart software. This inn...

Celanese has recently broadened its range of materials designed for automotive boots and bellows, introducing multiple sustainable materials alongside a new grade optimized for injection molding. The company has developed specific formulations for the various types of boots and bellows used in vehicles, catering to their unique technical requirements. This development is especially beneficial when original equipment manufacturers transition from thermoset rubber, which is challenging to recycle,...

Autoliv has introduced airbag cushions, made using 100% recycled polyester, the company said in a press release. The Sweden-based supplier collaborated with its supply chain partners to develop yarns, fabrics and cushions made from 100% recycled polyester for use in airbag production. The innovation promises to reduce the greenhouse gas footprint of airbags by half at the polymer level, all while maintaining the safety functionality comparable to standard polyester airbags. This development i...

On June 12, 2024, Lynk & Co introduced its first all-electric vehicle, the luxury flagship sedan, Lynk & Co Z10, in Gothenburg, Sweden. The Z10 represents Lynk & Co's cutting-edge technology, unique brand heritage, and its vision of Zeal, Enjoyment, Responsibility, and Originality, promising to deliver driving pleasure, enjoyment, safety, and quality. The design of the vehicle was inspired by the Lynk & Co The Next Day concept car and incorporates modern and timeless elements. ...

Japanese technology company Asahi Kasei has successfully conducted a proof of concept for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) using its proprietary high-ionic conductive electrolyte. This development allows for improved power output at low temperatures, enhanced durability at high temperatures, and contributes to the reduction of battery pack costs and sizes, thereby increasing energy density. Asahi Kasei aims to commercialize the new technology by 2025. LIBs are generally used within a tempera...

Antolin has introduced two products, ECover and ECover Tech, for use in vehicle interiors, the Spain-based company said in a press release June 6. These two solutions have been designed and developed with the aim of offering customers more sustainable components without compromising on design, perceived quality or the integration of features. ECover is designed using a single material, polypropylene, for both the plastic carrier of the vehicle's interior part and the fabric that covers it, ma...

Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) and POSCO N.EX.T Hub have developed a 3D polymeric structure improving lithium ion movement in a cell with lithium metal anode.  Professor Soojin Park and Dong-Yeob Han, a PhD candidate from the Department of Chemistry at POSTECH, in collaboration with Dr. Gyujin Song of KIER and a team of researchers at POSCO N.EX.T Hub created a hybrid porous structure using polyvin...

Researchers at the Department of Aluminum in the Advanced Metals Division at the Korea Institute of Material Sciences have developed an aluminum alloy for electric vehicles that dramatically improves thermal stability, thereby reducing the risk of fire hazards. The team identified a new mechanism by which the nanostructures inside aluminum alloys work and found that the alloys they developed improved thermal stability by up to 140% compared to materials from leading overseas companies. T...

Gestamp, a global company known for its design, development, and manufacture of highly engineered metal components for the auto industry, is presenting its new family of products, Gigastamping, at the Automotive Engineering Exposition 2024 Yokohama, Japan. Gestamp is also showcasing a new rear body solution, the One Piece Rear Frame part, a safer and lighter for the EV architecture, at the event. This solution offers the integration of the entire rear section into a single piece using ...

NTN Corp. (NTN) has developed a special heat-treatment technology named HA-C. This technology is designed to contribute to the downsizing and lightening of drive units for automobiles, including e-Axles used in electric vehicles. The HA-C technology allows for a higher load capacity of bearing, meaning NTN can create more compact and lighter bearings compared to traditional ones. The technology uses a large number of hard and fine precipitates to disperse, resulting in extremely high surface ...

BASF is expanding its biomass balance offering to include BMBCert 1,4-butanediol (BDO), tetrahydrofuran (THF), polytetrahydrofuran (PolyTHF) and 3-(dimethylamino)propylamine (DMAPA). BASF announced that its plant in Geismar, La., has also achieved certifications for manufacturing these products, whereas the Ulsan site in South Korea has obtained certification for PolyTHF. These products replace fossil resources with renewable raw materials. This allows BASF to offer regionally produ...

LyondellBasell has announced a collaboration with the Hunan Huda Aisheng Group (AISN), a notable automotive supplier in mainland China, to create the first lightweight plastic engine hood applications for new energy vehicles of premium domestic automotive brands. The two companies launched the product at the ChinaPlas 2024 International Plastics and Rubber Exhibition. "LyondellBasell is looking forward to working with AISN to drive a common mission of rapidly developing China's New Energy Veh...

Polyplastics, a company specializing in engineering plastics, has unveiled its new polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) grade, DURAFIDEⓇ PPS 1140HS6. This grade features improved thermal shock resistance and is easy to recycle during post-consumer recycling (PCR). This property allows it to be collected without being separated from other PPS components during the recycling process. The 40% glass-filled product is particularly suited to the requirements of metal insert molding, such as busbars for elect...

Sabic showcased two transportation applications that illustrate the capabilities of its polypropylene-ultra melt strength (PP-UMS) foam resin at NPE2024. This material offers a high level of foamability, allowing for the creation of polypropylene (PP) foams with a low density, robust impact resistance and conformity with VDA 278 emission regulations. The resin's processing versatility enables it to be used in sandwich panels for trucks, delivery vans, and recreational vehicles, as well as i...

Panacol will showcase its latest adhesives for various e-mobility and automotive electronics applications at 2024's Coil Winding, Insulation, & Electrical Manufacturing Exhibition (CWIEME) in Berlin, May 14–16. The company's ultraviolet (UV) adhesives in the Vitralit range are suitable for relieving stress on wires at the commutator, and can be cured in seconds using UV light. Panacol has also developed dual-curing (UV moisture) adhesives for bonding magnets in electric motors, which cu...

Sepion Technologies has developed a non-flammable liquid electrolyte that can reduce the risk and severity of fires in electric vehicle batteries, it said in a press release dated April 30. The company's proprietary materials discovery platform, powered by AI, was used to identify the new electrolyte material, which demonstrated a flash point exceeding 70°C and a self-extinguishing time (SET) that is 25 times better than commercial lithium-ion battery electrolytes. Sepion's researchers used fla...

Evonik has unveiled a concept car seat made solely of Vestamid polyamide (PA) 12 at Chinaplas in Shanghai, Plastics Today reported on April 25. The seat not only contributes to less material consumption during production but is also in line with circularity design. Evonik is one of the world's largest producers of polyamide 12 (PA 12), which it markets as VESTAMID® L. Vestamid PA 12 is used in the seat’s flexible foam via a supercritical foaming process, structural parts, and textiles. ...

Continental, a technology company, has combined its functional surface solutions into a compact model called the Door Panel Concept. The new model combines five different functional surfaces and was recently awarded the CMF Design Award 2023 for its innovative design. The company's surface solutions are designed to meet the requirements of global markets, particularly in autonomous vehicles with quiet electric drives. The focus is shifting from visual and acoustic impressions outside the vehi...

Kraiburg TPE, a renowned leader in thermoplastic elastomers, unveiled its latest breakthrough in automotive materials — the specialized Thermolast R RC/UV/AP series. This cutting-edge material represents a fusion of advanced technology and environmental sustainability, setting new standards for automotive antenna design, the company said in a press release on March 26. The company said the RC/UV/AP series extends to various automotive applications, including water deflectors, roof rack...

Leather manufacturer Bridge of Weir Leather has developed BioTAN and FreeTAN technologies for the development of bio-based and biodegradable leather, it said in a press release dated March 20. The two technologies have been developed over the last four years. BioTAN and FreeTAN will increase the bio-content and end-of-life biodegradability properties of leather, remove fossil fuel, oil-derived components and heavy metals from processes and products to achieve a circular future for natural lea...

SABIC has unveiled LNP ELCRES SLX1271SR resin, a part of its LNP SLX copolymer portfolio, it said in a press release dated March 12. This specialty material features enhanced scratch and mar resistance and a high-gloss surface finish to provide OEMs with a new molded-in color solution for exterior components. The LNP ELCRES SLX1271SR resin offers continuous UV stability and good mechanical performance. Paint-free LNP ELCRES SLX1271SR resin offers a new solution for reducing VOC (volatile orga...

Uno Minda has introduced a range of four-wheeler rear mirrors for the Indian market, Autocar reported March 19. The product is designed to enhance road visibility for drivers, promoting attentiveness behind the wheel by offering a clear view of the vehicle's surroundings. The four-wheeler rearview mirror features shatterproof, high-quality convex glass and has been designed as per recommended standards, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance across various four-wheeler models. "We'...

Yanfeng has developed the Reco Seat, it said in a press release dated March 12. The seat is made of innovative and recycled materials, including the foam and the steel frame, and reportedly reduces carbon emissions by up to 40% compared to conventional seating. The seat represents progress toward the company's climate goals, which include the use of recycled raw materials and lightweight components to reduce corporate carbon emissions and product carbon footprint (PCF). The Reco Seat features...

Hyundai Mobis has developed an Integrated Front Face Module that maintains the traditional grille design while reducing air resistance, it said in a press release dated March 14. The front face contains the head lamps, grille and hood. The company has used an aerodynamic system that reduces air resistance, a Lidar that protrudes outward only during driving for design and sensor protection, and an automatic charger retrieval feature that retrieves the charger after charging is completed. An im...

Syensqo has developed a new bio-based material called MTM 49-3 that features 30% bio-sourced monomers, it said in a press release dated Feb. 27. The MTM 49-3 complements the portfolio of the company’s Medium Temperature Molding (MTM) advanced prepregs and targets structural automotive applications such as body panels, chassis components and spoilers. The new product exhibits enhanced toughness and impact resistance compared to traditional thermoset prepregs. The material...

Kraiburg TPE has developed a new method for automotive applications that guarantees at least 73% recycled content across 20 to 95 Shore A hardness ratings, Plastics Today reported Feb. 25. The company is supporting the automotive value chain in meeting growing demands for sustainable materials, with its new portfolio of Recycling Content thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) for automotive grades set to replace current Interior PIR TPE ranges in 2024. The recipe represents a 25% reduction in carbon ...

Škoda has announced that the updated Octavia model comes with enhanced and sustainable interiors, in a press release dated Feb. 14. It now offers nine interior design selections, featuring an increased use of sustainable materials. For the first time, the Octavia is available with a 13-inch central infotainment display, and USB-C ports now provide 45 W of charging power, which is three times more than before. The Kessy keyless entry system has been improved for more convenient opening and lo...

Delo has developed a new adhesive for automotive lighting, according to an article on Assembly dated Feb. 9. Photobond OB4189 is resistant to yellowing and has a high aspect ratio, making it ideal for bonding microlens arrays used in headlights and projection systems. The adhesive has a high viscosity of 75,000 millipascal-seconds, enabling it to retain its shape after dispensing and not flow, which is crucial for bonding microlens arrays. It is also resistant to yellowing, as demonstrated throu...

Forvia Hella has developed a pioneering headlamp concept that combines sustainability, high performance and functionality in a cost-neutral manner, it said in a press release dated Feb. 13. The headlamp has a CO2 footprint up to 70% lower and weighs just 2 kg, compared with conventional headlamps that weigh about 5 kg. The concept is based on three principles: Less, better, longer, which involve using fewer components, using bio-based plastics and recyclates, and implementing software-ba...

Garware Hi-Tech Films has launched its latest sunroof and moonroof film kits and rooftop films, according to a report by Motoroids on Feb. 4. The film kits can be applied to sunroofs and moonroofs to protect from heat penetration, reducing temperature by approximately 30%. The darker color tone of the film also keeps harsh sunrays out. “Our goal at Garware Hi-Tech Films is to offer our customers superior protection solutions that enhance the aesthetics and durability of their vehi...

DIC Corp. has developed a new plateable polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) compound called DIC.PPS MP-6060 BLACK, it said in a press release dated Jan. 10. The compound was developed in collaboration with Tsukada Riken Industry and Yoshino Denka Kogyo. It enables the mass production of electroless and electro-plated super engineering plastic PPS on existing plastic-plating production lines without the need for a special etching process. The compound offers improved durability, lightness and workabil...

Constellium will showcase its latest innovations at Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, it said in a press release on Jan. 4. The company will highlight its sustainable solutions for automakers and consumers, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly mobility. The supplier will exhibit various automotive solutions at the event, including an innovative crash management system for electric vehicles, a structural sill providing stiffness and crash resistance, li...

KPIT Technologies has unveiled a new sodium (Na)-ion battery technology, according to its press filing on Dec. 12. The company has developed this technology in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), with the aim to reduce import dependency on core battery materials. The Na-ion battery technology has several use cases, including electric two- and three-wheelers, commercial vehicles, stationary deployments such as UPS backups and grid storage, as well as...

AGC will display its innovative materials and solutions for the automotive industry at Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 to be held in January 2024, it said in a press release dated Dec. 5, 2023. The company aims to create economic and social value through its cutting-edge glass and performance chemicals technology. AGC will showcase Wideye, a transparent and high-optical performance automotive glass for vision glazing, trims and sensor covers, designed for advanced driver assistance syste...

Toyoda Gosei announced that it has developed a lightweight plastic material reinforced with fibers derived from magnesium hydroxide extracted from seawater, according to a press release dated Nov. 27. The new material is a breakthrough in the company’s efforts to decarbonize and reduce the environmental impact of its products. By mixing the magnesium compound with a general-purpose plastic (polypropylene), Toyoda Gosei has managed to reduce the amount of reinforcing material by half while m...

Henkel has introduced a new solution for silicone liquid gasketing in the automotive industry, called Loctite SI 5972FC, according to a press release on Nov. 16. The one-part room temperature vulcanization (RTV) silicone form-in-place-gasket (FIPG) solution aims to reduce staging times and create a robust seal on assembly. The solution is designed to address automotive electronic components, particularly in the context of electrification and autonomy. Loctite SI 5972FC features a tin-free cat...

Kia has unveiled two new electric vehicle concepts, the EV3 and EV4, at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, according to a company press release on Nov. 16. The EV3 is a compact crossover that takes design cues from the flagship EV9, while the EV4 is a four-door sedan. Both concepts use bioplastic and recycled materials throughout. The EV3 features a sloping roofline and disconnected C pillar that gives the roof a floating effect. The interior has advanced ergonomic seats and a spacious horizonta...

Celanese has launched two new polyamides (PAs) for electric vehicle powertrain component and battery manufacturers, Plastics Today reported Nov. 8. The new materials offer improved safety, design flexibility and manufacturing efficiency. The Frianyl PA W-Series is a flame-retardant PA for large, thick-walled battery components, while the Celanyl PA B3 GF30 E is a PA-based compound for semistructural and structural EV powertrain applications. The Frianyl PA W-Series offers optimal comparati...

Niron Magnetics, the company known for pioneering the world’s first high-performance, rare-earth-free permanent magnets, announced Nov. 8 that it has raised $33 million in additional funding, with new investments coming from General Motors Ventures and Stellantis Ventures as well as some previous local investors, Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) and the University of Minnesota (UMN), among others. Niron said that the new financing will allow it to expand its current pilot product...

Volvo has unveiled the interiors of its new EM90 model, which it describes as a Scandinavian living room on the move. In a press release dated Nov. 1, Volvo detailed on the interiors featuring a variety of premium materials, luxury lounge seats with so-called zero-gravity cushions and a large panoramic sunroof. The six-seater vehicle features personalized entertainment and comfort adjustment options, controlled through the armrest and a touchscreen on a natural Forest Stewardship Council...

LyondellBasell has introduced a new range of translucent polypropylene compounds, Hifax and Hostacom, for the automotive industry, according to a press release dated October 9. The compounds are designed to provide light effects, addressing the growing demand from electric vehicle manufacturers to offer personalized designs. The new range features visual effects, ultraviolet resistance and durability, making it possible to integrate with standard automotive paint. “LyondellBasell translu...

Sabic has launched a new portfolio of 10 polymer resins that can reduce a part's carbon footprint while delivering similar performance properties, Plastics Today reported October 24. The new resins contain up to 75% certified post-consumer recycled (PCR) content and offer enhanced properties, such as low-temperature ductility, chemical resistance and weatherability. Sabic's upgraded LNP brand’s copolymer resins is an upgrade to its existing portfolio of materials, with higher percentages of...

German carmaker BMW has said that its second-generation compact Sports Activity Coupe, the X2, features a modern, tech-focused interior with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Operating System 9, in a press release dated October 11. The X2 will be available in two variants: The X2 xDrive28i and the high-performance X2 M35i xDrive, which will have a 312hp engine. The new X2 also includes features such as near-actuator wheel-slip limitation, adaptive M suspension and seven-speed Steptronic double-c...

Solvay has developed Xencor XTreme, a new line of long glass fiber polyphthalamide (PPA) solutions specifically designed for battery applications, it said in a press release dated October 9. The solutions are for batteries that require resistance to thermal runaway and propagation. These materials are engineered to withstand direct flame exposure at 1,000°C for over 10 minutes, providing ample time for passengers to safely exit a vehicle in the event of a thermal runaway. Additionally, ...

Pyrum Innovations is set to construct a Pyrum pyrolysis plant in the Czech Republic in partnership with a Czech energy group, it said in a press release on October 10. The companies are currently preparing the permit for the construction of the tire recycling plant. The new plant will have a capacity of 20,000 metric tons of end-of-life tires (ELT) per year, scheduled to start operations in 2025. The partnership is highly synergetic as the Czech partner already operates a power plant on the s...

Toray Industries has developed a technology that enables the recycling of glass fiber-reinforced polyphenylene sulfide (PPS-GFRP) with performance matching that of virgin resins, it said in a press release dated October 3. The company's proprietary compounding technology allows for the blending of PPS resin with special reinforcing fibers, enabling the creation of pellets for recycling materials. PPS resin is an engineering plastic with high-heat resistance and chemical resistance, and applie...

Forvia has unveiled a world-first, carbon-free steel seat structure in partnership with SSAB, according to a company press release dated September 25. The structure has been made without fossil fuels and a very low CO2 footprint, about 90% lower compared to a traditional steel seat structure. “This first use in the world of steel free of fossil fuels in the manufacture of a front seat structure, a key element of the vehicle, shows that it is now possible to develop new automotive equipment ...

Solvay will feature its latest innovations in sustainable polymer solutions at Fakuma 2023, it said in a press release dated September 19. “Solvay will launch two new grades of Ryton polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) Supreme resins, bringing enhanced performance benefits in e-mobility applications,” said Brian Baleno, head of Automotive Marketing. These new grades are produced with 100% renewable electricity. Solvay will also unveil its new Xencor Xtreme PPA grade for safety and reliability ...

Bridge of Weir has opened a new Super Tannery in Scotland for responsible and sustainable leather production, it said in a press release on September 20. The Scottish Leather Group (SLG)-owned company invested £14 million to set up the tannery. The Super Tannery reduces the number of hide drums to 14 from 30 used earlier, despite a larger batch processing. It results in an 82% reduction in energy consumption and a 42% reduction in water usage compared to previous methods. Significance: Th...

BASF has said that it will showcase innovative and sustainable plastic solutions for the automotive industry at Fakuma 2023 in Germany, according to a company press release on September 19. BASF will also showcase multiple eMobility applications, including charging solutions, high-voltage connectors and bus-bar holders as well as battery components meeting high performance and safety standards during normal use and in case of damage or accidents. Significance: BASF will also display its range...