Li Auto, Covestro build joint innovation platform for R&D of smart materials

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On September 6, 2024, Li Auto and leading German materials manufacturer Covestro signed a strategic cooperation agreement at Covestro's integrated Shanghai base in the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park, according to a post on Li Auto's WeChat account. The two companies will form a joint innovation platform to advance the R&D of smart materials for future mobility, promoting a circular economy and reducing carbon emissions in the automotive value chain.

Photo credit: Li Auto

According to the agreement, Li Auto and Covestro will leverage their respective technical expertise to co-develop high-performance optical-grade materials, smart surface technologies, new in-mold electronics processes, and thermal management solutions. These innovations are aimed at enhancing the user experience through material advancements.

The partnership will also focus on creating new low-carbon technologies, utilizing recycled and bio-based materials to replace traditional petrochemical sources. Additionally, the two companies, along with partners from the value chain, will explore innovative processes and business models for recycling materials like car lights into new auto components.

Photo credit: Li Auto

During the signing ceremony, Liao Mengjun, Vice President of R&D Operations at Li Auto, said, "Li Auto is committed to realizing its 'Smart + Electric Power' dual strategy through innovative materials and design, delivering safer, more comfortable, convenient, and refined travel experiences for users. Our collaboration with Covestro will accelerate our exploration of advanced materials, meeting the evolving needs of our customers."

During the event, the two companies also launched two industry-leading automotive-grade materials: innovative light-diffusing and infrared-transmitting Makrolon® polycarbonate. The light-diffusing material was developed in response to Li Auto's demand for precision and aesthetics in smart headlight designs, achieving an exceptional smoky grey appearance, uniform light diffusion, and high transmittance. This material enables more refined and uniform lighting effects for Li Auto's smart headlights.

The second material, an innovative infrared-transmitting polycarbonate, was created to meet Li Auto's stringent requirements for light aging resistance. This material features an infrared transmission rate greater than 85% across the 760nm–1,100nm wavelength range, with a starting transmission above 740nm. It significantly improves light-aging resistance compared to conventional black polycarbonate, while also minimizing visible light leakage.

Moving forward, the joint innovation platform will continue to explore multifunctional polycarbonate materials, developing advanced solutions across appearance, light, electrical, and thermal functionalities, further improving Li Auto's products and user experience.