Optimized grade of BASF’s Elastollan^® TPU enables safer and more reliable charging of electric vehicles

• Softer grade is more flexible and can withstand damage caused by repeated bending of charging cables

Shanghai, China – November 1, 2022 – BASF today launched Elastollan^® Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) 1180A10WDM, a new grade optimized for charging cables of fast charging piles. As the new grade is softer, it is more flexible and easier to handle than conventional charging cables of fast charging piles. 

“High-powered charging piles are gaining popularity as they improve the consumer experience of charging electric vehicles. However, the large cables of fast charging piles are rigid and can be easily damaged,” said Marilyn Lye, Vice President, Business Management Industrial, Performance Materials Asia Pacific, BASF. “BASF’s new grade of TPU is more flexible yet possesses excellent mechanical properties, weather resistance, and flame retardancy. It also meets electric vehicle charger cable standards*,” added Marilyn.

Consumers are vulnerable to severe injury when handling damaged charging cables. Charging cables can deteriorate due to the rigors of the environment, wear & tear from being bent and dragged during use, and even driven over. Using the new high-performance material Elastollan 1180A10WDM for fast charging piles enables a safer and more reliable charging of electric vehicles.

Additionally, the existing Elastollan 1185A10FHF for standard charging cables is available in the market and within shorter lead times directly from BASF Shanghai.

* Standards that specify the design, dimensions, and test requirements for electric vehicle cable: GB/T33594 (China), EN50620 (Europe), and IEC62893 (International)

About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 111,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €78.6 billion in 2021. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S. Further information at www.basf.com.

About BASF’s Performance Materials division

BASF’s Performance Materials division encompasses the entire materials’ know-how of BASF regarding innovative, customized plastics under one roof. Globally active in four major industry sectors – transportation, construction, industrial applications and consumer goods – the division has a strong portfolio of products and services combined with deep understanding of application-oriented system solutions. Key drivers of profitability and growth are our close collaboration with customers and a clear focus on solutions. Strong capabilities in R&D provide the basis to develop innovative products and applications. In 2021, the Performance Materials division achieved global sales of €7.29 bn. More information: www.plastics.basf.com.