Plastic automotive parts technology

We’re developing new recyclable, impact-resistant plastics to make car parts lighter to help improve fuel efficiency.  Car parts such as bumpers and fuel tanks made from advanced ExxonMobil plastics also improve fuel economy — and consequently reduce emissions — by reducing vehicle weight.

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are products that perform like rubber but can be processed with the speed, efficiency and economy of thermoplastics. Around 50 percent of TPE sales are to the automotive industry, where it is used on car windshields, under-hood applications and for interior parts. The versatile product is also used by the construction industry, and for consumer goods such as flexible toothbrushes and kitchen utensils. With ductility at -30°C (-22°F) or below, ExxonMobil Chemical’s Exact™ plastomers provide the low-temperature flexibility to absorb high-energy impacts without brittle failure in automotive bumper fascia and door trim. Exact™ plastomers also work well in interior applications such as pillars and instrument panels and under the hood in radiator fans and fan shrouds.