Plastic parts at a glance

16-01-18 Smarter cars, intelligent materials, (hopefully) better human beings

Recently, a German VP of supplier of plastic interior auto parts, said with the ongoing development of self-driving cars, the vehicle interior is gaining significance since the focus is shifting from an active driving experience to a passive one.
"In particular, with regard to the trend of autonomous and self-driving, the car interior is undergoing a fundamental change. Occupants will have more time at their disposal to do other things than pay attention to driving," He said in a Jan. 10. "The future interior will become a living and working space for people and must therefore offer a new quality of service."

Its company supplied two multifunctional storage systems for the Snap. The first storage system consists of a sturdy storage case and a tub.
"Thanks to a loop strap, the system can be pulled out from the tub quickly and easily and provides a maximum of flexibility when using it as … an office box," he said. "At the same time, everything is safely secured and quickly accessible."
The second system consists of a center console storage compartment that has an inductive charging system for smartphones, two cup holders on each side and convenient storage space in the rear part of the console.Components such as the housing are made from ABS, while the bezel and mugs are made from polyurethane.
"The materials used must meet the highest demands of the automotive industry," The interviewed said, citing high-quality surfaces that are scratch-resistant and self-healing. "By combining high-temperature resistance with toughness, it is possible to simulate durable and precise plastic products."
The company's concept behind the storage bins was to create a mobile storage system that could hold a passenger's all-day items — such as a bottle, umbrella or office supplies — and safely secure them, while keeping the interior tidy. Additionally, four lighting modules are integrated into the storage system to create a "feel-good atmosphere to relax in,"
"The comfortable portability outside the car is ensured through a retractable handle and allows customers to take the mobile case with them and use it on demand wherever they are," he said. "Functionality, design and haptic are combined perfectly."