Plastic materials are increasingly applied to production of automotive parts and components in recent years driven by lightweight requirements for fuel efficiency and lower gas emissions, according to Markus Steilemann, CEO of Covestro, a specialist in polymer materials.
Automotive plastics now account for 50% of a vehicle build-up and only 10% of overall vehicle weight, with the use of plastics picking up sharply for electric vehicles (EVs), he said.
Steilemann said his Germany-based firm has positioned itself as not only a polymer materials manufacturer but also a co-designer of future vehicles, aiming to leverage its materials and engineering technologies to work out innovative, low-cost, and lightweight solutions for next-generation vehicles.
At the K Fair 2019 running October 16-23 in Dusseldorf, Covestro, besides its latest polymer solutions, is also showcasing a concept car, highlighting fuel efficiency, lightweight, comfort and performance.
Jochen Hardt, head of global marketing for automotive, transportation and polycarbonates at Covestro, noted that designs, materials and technologies will be the three major elements for future innovations and Covestro will integrate them into crucial components solutions for next-generation EVs.
Hardt continued that Covestro has developed 3D seamless multi-function display system with its polymer materials, and will also develop multi-sensing information and entertainment systems, innovative seats, smart surfaces and personalized lighting system.
Also, the concept car features a human-machine interface able to support communication between passengers and cars or with the outside world. A moldable carrier made of polymers is also available to facilitate additional functions.
In-mold decoration (IMD) and film insert molding (FIM) will be incorporated to enhance surface designs, while sensors, cameras and 5G antennas, and rear lights will be integrated into roof diffusion panels to beautify the car's exterior.
Article translated by Willis Ke