Electric car components made with safe, tough, and light materials

Passenger cars are responsible for around 2.5% of total EU emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is the main greenhouse gas. No wonder there is public and government pressure to replace the combustion engine with a more sustainable energy source.

Yet despite promising lithium-ion battery technology and widespread policies to promote electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids, consumers are still not always convinced about EVs. Beyond the high sticker price, people are put off by electric charger safety concerns, and the fear of being stranded with an empty battery.

Covestro offers a range of innovative polycarbonate and polyurethane materials that help EV component producers address the pain points associated with electric cars, and to accelerate the transition to a circular economy.

Powertrain electronics

All-electric powertrain parts demand increased dimensional stability, limited warpage, less humidity absorption, and no electronic corrosion. Covestro has developed materials that meet these criteria, including isotropic shrinkage and phosphorous based flame-retardancy without electro corrosion.

Thermal management: electric car battery packaging to support liquid, air or phase change cooling 

High-speed charging can quickly overheat electric car batteries, which should be operating under 40°C for peak efficiency and longer life. Covestro has developed packaging for batteries that can withstand high temperatures, maintain its strength when exposed to battery coolants or other chemicals, or conduct heat better.