According to foreign media reports, many industry experts gathered at the China R&D headquarters to discuss the selection of raw materials for self-driving vehicles.
Experts recognize that the idea of using lightweight composite panels instead of high-strength metals does not seem to work. When autonomous vehicles are driving on the same road as non-autonomous vehicles, high-speed collisions may still occur. This phenomenon may be very high. universal.
If plastic windows and columns are used, the problem of blind spots will be solved, because the collision between pedestrians and vehicles is usually caused by visual blind spots. Due to the constraints of sensors and software, if the strength requirements are low, the above equipment can be integrated into the composite panel. .
Covestro collaborated with designers from the Swedish Umeå School of Design to develop the concept car for the self-driving vehicle, codenamed K2016 EV, which uses bold new materials.
The polycarbonate-wrapped glazing can be used to replace various types of windows on conventional vehicles. In addition, the overall weight of the solution is 50% lighter than conventional window glazing.
High-performance polyurethane wear-resistant materials have been widely used in new cars, accounting for about 18% of the proportion of medium-sized cars.
High-performance plastics will replace traditional metal parts and interior glass. Polycarbonate not only resists shock and shatter, but also blocks harmful UV rays.
However, Covestro believes that the current polycarbonate material will be gradually applied to the window. In addition, it can also spray hard film to further enhance the chipping resistance and wear resistance of these materials.