"Car Parts, Lightweight and Convenient" KBI Dongguk Silup's Technology Development Success

by Choi Daeyul

Published 09 Nov.2022 10:19(KST)

Crash pad and sliding glove box images installed in Genesis GV60

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Dae-yeol] The first dedicated electric vehicle GV60 crash pad of Hyundai Motor's premium brand Genesis features the IMG (IN MOLD GRAIN) technology for integrated surface material molding. This technology implements laminate skin foam with embossed patterns through vacuum forming, simultaneously pressing it as a single unit onto the front crash pad surface of the vehicle. It is a method suitable for making the surface lightweight while giving a luxurious feel. The same technology is also used in Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5.

This technology was developed by the automotive parts company KBI Dongguk Industrial. Similar to the crash pad, the company applied a different approach to the console and glove box, which are frequently touched by passengers inside the vehicle. Instead of a hinged opening, sliding rails were incorporated to enhance space utilization and convenience.

The center console with sliding technology was first installed domestically under the name Universal Island in Hyundai Motor's first dedicated electric vehicle Ioniq 5, launched last year. KBI Dongguk Industrial's patented technology was also applied to the GV60 glove box. The company stated that as electric and autonomous vehicles become widely adopted, how to utilize interior vehicle space will become crucial, and they are developing various forms of sliding rail technologies accordingly.

According to KBI Dongguk Industrial, they have invested 23 billion KRW in research and development (R&D) over the past three years, gradually achieving results. Patent applications increased from 7 in July 2019 to 13 the following year, and 12 last year. This year, they have already filed 11 applications. Regarding IMG technology, they filed 5 patents domestically and 5 overseas, while sliding patents include 11 domestic and 8 overseas applications in progress.

As part of the National Innovation Convergence Complex Support Project led by Ulsan Technopark, the company undertook integrated design and product development of crash pad and console parts for a small electric bus platform. They developed a flame-retardant crash pad with a high flame-retardant rating that gives a luxurious impression.

Kim Jin-san, CEO of KBI Dongguk Industrial, said, "We will continue to focus on technology development to be recognized in the electric vehicle parts market and to increase sales and profitability."