Lightweight construction in electric cars with EPP components from RUCH NOVAPLAST
Lightweight construction plays a central role in electromobility. After all, every kilogram saved increases the energy efficiency and therefore the range of electric cars. At the same time, components should be robust, durable and safe. A French manufacturer of commercial vehicles that specializes in professional green space maintenance uses the versatile particle foam for its innovative products.
A strong connection: EPP and electromobility
Electric vehicles require materials that combine high strength with low weight. This is where EPP particle foam offers decisive advantages: It is extremely light, shock-absorbent, dimensionally stable and fully recyclable. These properties make it the ideal material for modern vehicle construction.
The French manufacturer has been focusing on environmentally friendly drive technologies and electrically powered machines for some time now. With the new, multifunctional commercial vehicle, which is 100% electrically powered, it is now going one step further and relying on the expertise of RUCH NOVAPLAST.
EPP components for a robust and lightweight driver’s cab
The driver’s cab of the vehicle consists of a frame with aluminum profiles and covers made of expanded polypropylene. The EPP components are used in the door area and as a roof cover. Their outer sides are finished with a special surface texture. This creates a closed, non-porous surface that is not only water-repellent but also visually appealing. Even the sun visors for the driver and passenger side are made of EPP and weigh only around 100 to 120 grams, making them particularly lightweight.
NOVAfeed&fix® for flexible mounting solutions
Several NOVAfeed&fix® elements provide flexible and reliable fastening options in the vehicle. The composite components consist of an external particle foam and an injected thermoplastic core. The concept is based on the proven principle of particle foam composite injection molding. This combination makes it possible to create lightweight, functional and easy-to-install solutions.
The future of lightweight construction in vehicle construction
Further vehicle parts made of expanded polypropylene for electric vehicles are already being planned. This shows that the use of EPP in the lightweight construction of electric cars is not a dream of the future, but a reality. RUCH NOVAPLAST supports vehicle manufacturers with tailor-made molded parts, complete assemblies and innovative joining solutions.
