LG Chem, Volkswagen partner on next-generation automotive materials

LG Chem has entered into an agreement with Volkswagen Group to collaboratively develop advanced, environmentally friendly materials for automotive use, according to a press release from the Korean chemical company on Monday. The agreement, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed at LG Twin Towers in Seoul's financial district, was recently formalized by Stefan Gramse, an executive vice president of Volkswagen Group responsible for exterior parts procurement, alongside LG Chem representatives from their petrochemicals division.

The partnership aims to leverage LG Chem's acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and engineering plastics, renowned for their high impact strength, durability, and ease of processing, to create lighter vehicles, enhance performance, and innovate new plastics and composite materials. These materials are prevalent in various applications, including home appliance casings and both the interiors and exteriors of cars, owing to their desirable properties.

In addition to the development of cutting-edge materials, Volkswagen has expressed interest in incorporating LG Chem's post-consumer recycled plastics into its manufacturing processes. These recycled plastics, derived from discarded consumer products, could serve as cost-effective alternatives for the interiors and exteriors of Volkswagen's flagship car models. The collaboration between LG Chem and Volkswagen underscores the automotive industry's ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation in material science.