BASF's New Elastollan® AC 55D10 HPM TPU Finds Application in Citroën C4 Cactus' Airbumps
As a manufacturer of thermoplastic polyurethane ( TPU ), BASF has successfully optimized the material so that it can be applied extensively and unpainted on the vehicle exterior. The automotive manufacturer PSA Peugeot Citroën uses the new TPU grade Elastollan® AC 55D10 HPM (High Performance Material) for cladding the Citroën C4 Cactus with so-called Airbumps®. These are large air-filled cushion bumpers in contrasting colors: They are fitted on the sides as well as on the front and rear of the vehicle, protect the car exterior from impact and scratches and give the vehicle its distinctive look. This world first is the result of many years of development work between the French automotive manufacturer, the supplier Rehau, Switzerland and BASF. Rehau manufactures the side Airbumps®, while the company Faurecia, France produces the bumpers at the front and back. "With their characteristic Elastollan® surface, Airbumps® embody the philosophy of the Citroën C4 Cactus perfectly —