Covestro uses Maezio thermoplastic composites for prototype future mobility interiors

Autonomous vehicles, electric cars and car sharing will soon fully redefine the
use of a vehicle: The car will become a multifunctional, mobile living and
working space. This is the guiding principle of a premium interior concept for
future mobility recently unveiled by project lead Covestro and its development partners.

"Modern materials and technologies have paved the way for this,” said Jochen Hardt from Global Marketing Mobility at Covestro. “In cooperation with partners, we keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible."

The concept focuses equally on functionality, comfort and design, but also on
efficiency and light weight, including innovative seating concepts, smart surfaces and integrated, personalized lighting. Covestro claims its high-tech materials open up a kaleidoscope of new possibilities for many different components.

New, lightweight seating and flexible tables

As the classic function of the driver's seat is no longer required, the car interior can be given a new look and design. Not only should the seats be comfortable, they should also offer enough flexibility to expand the interior space. An individually configurable lighting system is also integrated to ensure comfort and safety and enables car manufacturers to differentiate their brands.

In these seats, Covestro’s Maezio brand continuous carbon fiber-reinforced polycarbonate composites materials provide a new aesthetic appeal and robust structure, while Makrofol® films combine design and functionality.

Together with partners, Covestro has also developed a lightweight table that is tailored to new usage habits in autonomous vehicles and offering a lot of flexibility. The 2019 prototype is made of Maezio™ composite material and delivers thin-walled construction, aesthetics and stability. The table can be designed to be foldable so that it can be stowed between the rear seats to save space.