Borealis meets challenges for Fiat Ducato van

Borealis, a leading supplier of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, is helping automotive manufacturer Fiat to improve the scratch performance and overall aesthetics of selected interior and exterior components of its latest Ducato van. Characterised by easy processing, low gloss and scratch resistance, the specifically adapted Daplen materials, therefore contribute to the differentiation of the Ducato vans in the market.

For the unpainted bumper, outstanding scratch resistance was set as a requirement together with high level surface aesthetics. Italian moulder Ergom was able to meet Fiat’s specifications with Daplen EE103AE. Aside from the required scratch resistance, the solution also provides a qualitative matt surface finish.

The high melt flow rate of Daplen EE103AE enables Ergom to use straightforward production techniques for the bumper, despite the complex thin-walled, very large and grained surface area of the Ducato bumper ensemble. The material’s low thermal expansion minimises any temperature-related gaps from occurring between the part and chassis once assembled.

Daplen EE168AI was selected for the interior door cladding and arm rest. The grade meets the need for high scratch resistance, low gloss and high dimensional stability. With these properties, Italian moulder Lear was able to offer Fiat aesthetic, lightweight, stable door cladding.

Gianni Castronouvo, Application Marketing Manager Borealis, comments: “With consumer expectations constantly rising, Fiat sets high priority on the surface aesthetics and scratch resistance of the thermoplastic olefins it uses for interior and exterior parts. We worked closely with our partners to meet Fiat’s requirements regarding the quality, look and feel of the latest Ducato by providing the ideal Daplen materials.”

With an in depth understanding of the value chain and a focus on customer needs, Borealis provides innovative, value creating PP solutions with optimum performance for interior, exterior and under the bonnet automotive applications.