Foam for e-mobility

In their new modular MetroSnap concept car, Swiss mobility think tank Rinspeed is once again relying on innovative foam technology from FoamPartner to ensure highly effective acoustic and thermal insulation. According to Kay Kosar, Head of Marketing & Sales, Acoustics & Thermal Solutions (A&TS) Europe at FoamPartner, "One of the key advantages of electric vehicles is the ability for fast acceleration and low-noise drives. But the latter places higher demands on the insulation of the passenger compartment against rolling and wind noises.” At the same time, the power consumed by heating and air-conditioning must be minimized to ensure maximum driving ranges. In both disciplines, the advanced foam solutions are suitable. 

 

The design of the MetroSnap builds on the MicroSnap and other concept cars from previous years. The main components of the concept car are a ‘Skateboard’ chassis and quick-change superstructure or ‘Pods’ for passenger and cargo transportation. The fully electric, connected and autonomously moving vehicle takes advantage of state-of-the-art technology from distinguished partner companies. Its encompassing concept – including a composite/steel body, 3D printed components, lidar sensors and a drive-by-wire system – also extends to battery leasing, insurance and payment services. The interior design features cutting-edge equipment, such as a digital cockpit and aircraft seats.

 

 

“For the interior of the MetroSnap, we paid special attention to providing high aesthetics, as well as being able to offer a durable and protective feel-good environment,” emphasizes Frank M. Rinderknecht, CEO of Rinspeed AG. Mr. Rinderknecht also stressed that FoamPartner is the perfect address for MetroSnap to meet these needs as its specialized expertise in acoustic and thermal insulation, which is already well-proven in the forerunners of MetroSnap, helps MetroSnap to maximize the autonomous driving experience.  

 

With its business segments Acoustic & Thermal Solutions (A&TS) for acoustic and thermal insulation products and Automotive Rolls (AR) for vehicle interiors, FoamPartner specializes in high-quality low-emission and low-odor polyurethane ester and polyurethane ether foam solutions. Typical automotive interior applications include headliners and door panels, as well as large insulation and damping components, such as the dash inner encapsulation unit. The application engineers at the company’s Techcenter have extensive expertise in the field of automotive acoustics and in the development of lightweighting PUR foam systems.

 

“Our long-standing partnership with Rinspeed underscores our leading role as a customer-focused niche player in tailor-made foam solutions. To meet the rising demand, we will shortly commission a new Conversion Center at our Duderstadt site in Germany, which will significantly expand our supply capacities,” adds Dr. Michael Riedel, CEO at FoamPartner.