For more than 20 years, DSM has worked to develop a range of materials for automotive applications that perform more reliably and longer than metals and most plastics, while also delivering commercial, environmental and design benefits.
DSM in Automotive
Our innovative high performance plastics are developed to meet a wide variety of technological challenges in automotive. Browse these pages to learn more about how our industry experts, scientists and engineers work hand in hand with our customers to develop next generation solutions.
Automotive
Meeting the extreme in automotive
The future of the automotive industry is rapidly changing. The era of internal combustion engines as a single power source is ending, indicating a transformation that makes vehicles cleaner. To get there, we need engineering plastics that are capable of meeting extreme challenges.
Our portfolio of tough yet lightweight plastics are driving manufacturers to produce automotive components that are extremely light, reduce engine friction, and can operate in extreme environments – particularly at very high temperatures. All of these characteristics lead to reducing emissions, as well as system costs.
It’s time for the automotive industry to think differently. To work together to move beyond metal to create lighter, more advanced vehicles with drastically smaller carbon footprints.
Customer case studies
Commited to Apple’s 100% Clean Energy Production program
We are proud to support Apple’s Clean Energy program and the transition to 100% renewable energy in their supply chain. Our polymers and compounds are used in many Apple products, including connectors and cables.
Ford Motor Company and DSM win SPE Automotive Innovation Award
The modified PA46 Stanyl HGR2 made the Ford Motor Company and DSM win the 2017 SPE Automotive Innovation Award. Developed by DSM, this low-friction, high wear-resistance material is used in chain tensioner arms.
Stanyl® Diablo adopted in first high-volume, high-heat plastic AIM/CAC combination
DSM has collaborated with Tier One automotive supplier Mahle GmbH to develop the world’s first high-volume use of high-heat plastic in an air intake manifold (AIM) that integrates a water-cooled charge air cooler (CAC).
Meeting the challenges of tomorrow
How will you design automotive components that meet the challenges of your industry, today and tomorrow? DSM offers high-performing plastic solutions, technologies and expertise for the extreme demands of next-generation vehicles.
Our materials are a driving force in producing automotive components that are extremely light; that reduce friction in the engine; and can operate in the most extreme heat. On the road to zero emissions It’s time to think differently. To think beyond metal. And above all, to think together.
Browse applications in automotive
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Body & Chassis
Body plugs, structural reinforcements and chassis made of Akulon® polyamide 6 and Arnitel® TPC (TPE-E) make better, safer, lighter, and more cost-efficient cars
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Drivetrain
Our innovative high-performance plastics are developed to meet a wide variety of technological challenges in automotive. Browse these pages to learn more about how our industry experts, scientists and engineers work hand in hand with our customers to develop next generation solutions.
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Engine
Our innovative high-performance plastics are developed to meet a wide variety of technological challenges in automotive. Browse these pages to learn more about how our industry experts, scientists and engineers work hand in hand with our customers to develop next generation solutions.
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Exterior
Our broad portfolio of materials has grades suited to a wide range of exterior applications – for both painted and unpainted parts.
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Interior
Drivers have the most interaction with the interior of the vehicle, making it a key area of focus as automobile manufacturers focus on improving the driving experience.
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Steering
Reducing the weight of electronic power steering systems (EPS) without compromising driver safety has proven a great challenge to the industry.
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Suspension
The suspension system is essential to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride – with reduced noise, vibration and harshness for the driver and passengers.
A scientific approach to building solutions
Our dedicated teams work closely with our customers to look at the entire process of developing new parts and components – whether it is a case of metal replacement, or developing solutions that are stronger, safer and more effective. Our methodical approach extends to every step of the process, from design and material performance to production and compliance.
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Downsizing & Miniaturization
As our economy places more focus on efficiency, industry is responding by creating products that are thinner, lighter, and smaller – with the same or more functionality.
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Narrow tolerances
In the ongoing quest to do more with less, some automotive applications prove more challenging than others.
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Wear & Friction
As car manufacturers seek to meet more strict legislation on tailgate emissions, a key area of focus is the reduction of wear and friction in the engine and transmission.
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Flame retardancy
The engineering plastics used in various electronics parts have to comply with strict flame retardancy requirements and more environmentally friendly solutions
Further reading
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Find the right plastic for your product
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Our Automotive Portfolio at a glance
For more than 25 years DSM has worked with the automotive industry to design better, smarter, safer, lighter – and increasingly greener components.
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