20 Jun 2025
Side-steps improve vehicle accessibility, enhance functionality, and contribute to a unified exterior design
Waldkraiburg, Germany – Kraiburg TPE has developed a new range of sustainable thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) for vehicle running boards – as well as other exterior automotive components.
Labelled Thermolast R RC/UV/AP, the 15–40% recycled-content TPE series is said to enhance the performance of running boards, which improve access and safety for high-clearance vehicles like SUVs and trucks.
The new TPEs support the design of running boards with enhanced durability, grip and weather resistance “while boosting performance with an eco-friendly edge,” said a Kraiburg TPE release.
Other features include excellent weather resistance, UV stability, and impact strength as well as long-term durability and surface quality, added the statement issued 11 June.
The compounds offer excellent adhesion to polypropylene (PP), low density for weight reduction, and temperature stability up to 90°C, Kraiburg TPE further pointed out.
“These features, along with proven performance in the two-year Florida weathering test with a GS rating of 4 and above, make the series highly resilient under harsh outdoor conditions,” it stated.
The series is also said to be suitable for other exterior automotive parts, including cowl gaskets, underbody components, and window encapsulations.
Subscribe for unlimited access. A subscription to European Rubber Journal includes:
Already a subscriber? Log in here
