The Lexus ES luggage panel exemplifies how material selection can drive manufacturing process innovation. Covestro’s Makroblend UT235M, a polycarbonate blend, has been utilized for this large exterior component. Toyoda Gosei molds the panel using in-mold coating (IMC), which eliminates the need for traditional painting.
This method not only reduces CO2 emissions but also results in a Class A surface finish, contributing to a cleaner and more premium appearance that complements the adjacent glass on the vehicle’s rear.
Covestro highlights that this material choice meets the stringent demands for appearance, stability, and durability typically required for external vehicle parts. The interaction between the Makroblend and the IMC coating chemistry ensures effective bonding and consistent finish quality during high-volume production.
The successful implementation in the Lexus ES serves as a benchmark for Covestro as it seeks to expand the use of IMC in Japan, where it provides local support for application development and technical assistance. The company’s Japanese facility is equipped with IMC evaluation tools to facilitate testing in conditions that closely mimic production environments, allowing for quicker decisions in collaboration with partners.
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