BASF and Hyundai Collaborate on Next-Generation Inflatable Seat Material

Debuted at Auto China 2026
BASF TPU Material Applied to Concept Car
New Automotive Interior Material Combining Design and Sustainability

Global chemical company BASF has collaborated with the Hyundai Motor Company’s Hyundai China Design Center to develop an inflatable seat module material.

‘Air Hug’ seat module applied with Elastollan® TPU. BASF

This material was developed for the new concept car in the IONIQ sport utility vehicle (SUV) lineup, the 'EARTH Concept,' and is based on the thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material 'Elastollan®.' It was unveiled for the first time at the recent Auto China 2026, the Beijing International Motor Show.

The material features high puncture resistance and durability, as well as excellent weldability and air-sealing performance, even under repeated air inflation and deflation conditions. BASF explained that this enables the simultaneous realization of comfort, aesthetics, and functionality in vehicle interiors. The material also facilitates the implementation of structural colors based on photonic crystals, increasing design flexibility. Additionally, it can be mechanically and chemically recycled, addressing sustainability considerations.

Rohit Ghosh, Vice President of the Functional Materials TPU division for BASF Asia Pacific, stated, "Through Elastollan TPU, we are realizing new functionalities and design concepts for the future of automotive interiors. By combining our material expertise with application know-how, we are delivering innovative mobility solutions."

Simon Loasby, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Motor Company’s Hyundai Design Center, said, "The interior of the EARTH Concept is inspired by the vitality and biological balance of our planet. Elastollan TPU is a material that enables both ergonomic performance and differentiated design."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.