High-quality automotive interiors based on polyurethane foam for future mobility solutions

FoamPartner collaborates with Rinspeed in the development of high-quality automotive interiors based on polyurethane foam, and foam technology for automotive interiors as well as acoustic and thermal insulation

Our polyurethane foam specialist has partnered with Rinspeed, the renowned creative think tank and mobility lab for the automotive industry, to develop advanced concepts for the mobility of tomorrow. We support them with innovative foam technology for automotive interiors as well as acoustic and thermal insulation.

Visionary foam solutions for electromobility

“The automotive world is undergoing radical change,” says Kay Kosar, Vice President of the Acoustics & Thermal Solutions (A&TS) global business unit at FoamPartner. “Smart cities, autonomous driving, car sharing and artificial intelligence are all demanding visionary mobility solutions. The growing electrification of road traffic, including the use of information technology and sensor systems in modern vehicles, shows a clear trend towards encompassing and value-added concepts that will provide significant benefits in both transportation and driving experience.”

Polyurethane foam with a feel-good factor

The microSNAP illustrates this comprehensive approach by means of a chassis with an electric drive and variable superstructures, including a robotized change station, all targeted at the autonomous local transport of goods and people. “The passenger compartment module has all the features required for tomorrow’s smart passenger transport, such as a digital cockpit, a voice assistant and, last but not least, a durable, rugged yet comfortable interior design,” says Frank M. Rinderknecht, CEO of Rinspeed AG.

Presented first early this year at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and now making its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the microSNAP benefits from several innovative foam solutions. FoamPartner specializes in solutions for high-quality, low-emission and low-odor applications based on polyurethane ester and polyurethane ether foams. These are developed by its Acoustic & Thermal Solutions (A&TS) business unit as well as its Automotive Rolls (AR) business unit for automotive interiors, e.g. headliners, door panels and arm rests.

Acoustic and thermal foam solutions for electric vehicles

While engine sound-proofing is paramount for conventional combustion vehicles, considerably quieter electric vehicles have an increased need for reducing the rolling and wind noises transmitted into the passenger compartment. At the same time, thermal insulation is becoming ever more important to protect the battery from heat and cold and minimize the energy consumed for heating and air conditioning.

“FoamPartner is a small but extremely customer-focused niche supplier,” Kosar emphasizes. “We offer tailored solutions that make use of our expertise in polyurethane foam materials and processing, through to prototyping. The partnership with Rinspeed fits perfectly in our existing network with other manufacturers and suppliers of the industry, and has already resulted in several further innovation projects.”

Solutions for tomorrow's electromobility – with today’s foam technology

„FoamPartner is the perfect address for us to implement our ideas for the comfortable passenger compartment of tomorrow. Their application and development engineers share our passion for sustainable innovation and have an excellent sense of the art of the possible in foam.“

Frank M. Rinderknecht, CEO - Rinspeed AG

Innovative development of thermal and acoustic foams

Among its various customer services, the application development operation at FoamPartner includes comprehensive facilities for 3D component simulation. For prototyping, non-woven, leather and other surfacing materials are sourced from qualified network partners. Foams and components can be tested in-house at the company’s Acoustic/Thermo Center.

The microSNAP can be seen on Rinspeed’s booth, 6240, during the Geneva International Motor Show, which runs until March 17.

Our Solutions for Sound & Heat Insulation in Vehicles

  • Acoustic & Thermal Solutions

    Sound Absorption & Thermal Insulation for Automotive & Co

    Acoustic foam and thermal insulation for automotive, aviation, rail & shipping.

    Lightweight, customized solutions for acoustically & thermally challenging environments in automotive, rail & aerospace.

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