Dow Automotive supplies the new MINI with a multitude of materials that support technical and aesthetic features of the cult car. Materials include MAGNUM™ ABS resins, PULSE™ PC/ABS engineering resins and INSPIRE™ talc filled polypropylene (TF PP.) The application area for MAGNUM is the air ducts and PULSE is used for the instrument panel (IP,) as was the case for the previous version of the MINI.

Photograph: BMW

INSPIRE is used for a variety of the visible applications like the lower IP, door panel, glove box, mid console, pillars and trunk. For the export versions to the US, Dow Automotive’s PULSE PC-ABS is used to meet US safety regulations for glove box and knee-rolls.

The polypropylene (PP) applications are manufactured using coloured PP and fulfil requirements for UV stability, colour stability and aesthetics. As the prestigious MINI model calls for a clear high-end design, meeting these requirements were crucial for Dow Automotive. The final colour design was developed with the MINI team in Munich, which enabled Dow Automotive to bring in its in colouring PP applications.

All Dow Automotive materials offer improved scratch resistance, which was also one of the most important requirements for the overall high-end appeal of the MINI interiors. Safety, performance and appearance requirements are also fulfilled by this selection of Dow Automotive solutions.

About Dow Automotive

Dow Automotive is a leading global provider of technology-driven solutions that meet consumer demand for vehicles that are safer, stronger, quieter, lighter, cleaner, comfortable and stylish. The organization provides plastics, adhesives, glass bonding systems, sealants, emissions control technology, films, fluids and structural enhancement and acoustical management solutions to OEM, tier and aftermarket customers around the world. For additional information about Dow Automotive products, services, and application development centres, visit www.dowautomotive.com.

™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company

Contact:
Clemens Wesely
MS&L for Dow Automotive
Phone: +49 69 6612 456 8381
E-Mail: clemens.wesely@mslpr.de