Building a new future for automakers
As the automotive industry grows and evolves, Teknor Apex is meeting the needs of both gas-powered and electric vehicles. We’re helping the global transportation infrastructure adapt to the realities of the modern world. Our team of experts is deeply focused on understanding this dynamic industry, inside and out.
Challenges in automotive that we help solve
Weight reduction and efficiency
In both traditional gasoline-powered vehicles and in BEVs, the industry is making a big push to replace heavier materials like metal and thermoset rubber with plastics that are strong, yet lightweight. Lighter materials translate to improved fuel efficiency and a significant improvement in overall driving range.
Reducing environmental impact
Consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, and automakers are looking for ways to make their vehicles more sustainable. This could mean exploring bio-based alternatives, innovating end-of-life solutions, or using solutions with recycled content—such as Sarlink® Rx 3100 Series TPVs, with up to 30% post-industrial recycled content.
Electrification
Electric vehicles require entirely different powertrains compared to traditional Internal Combusion Engine (ICE) vehicles. This requires a shift in manufacturing processes, supply chains and workforce skillsets. Battery range anxiety remains a concern for consumers, and the lack of widespread and readily available charging stations is a significant hurdle for EV adoption. A robust charging infrastructure will require significant investment across the entire industry.
Teknor Apex Sarlink®: the optimal choice for EV coolant hoses
Sarlink Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV) offer the performance and versatility the auto industry needs–with flexible hoses or stiff tubes, mono or multi-layer, and a variety of reinforcement types. Compared to traditional materials, Sarlink TPVs offer weight and total-system cost savings, with the environmental benefit of recyclability in-process and at end-of-life.
Sarlink vs. EPDM: Your quick reference guide for automotive sealing
For decades, Sarlink TPVs have been steadily displacing EPDM rubber in automotive weather seals. The main drivers for switching from EPDM to TPV are performance enhancements, weight reduction, improved manufacturability, and recyclability. All of these factors make Sarlink TPVs the more sustainable material choice. Check out our quick reference guide to learn more.
