- Inflatable 'Air Hug' seat in Hyundai's latest 'Earth Concept' car, presented at Auto China 2026
- Elastollan TPU in 'Air Hug' seat modules produced at BASF's Zhanjiang Verbund site
BASF has partnered with Hyundai Design China to develop inflatable 'Air Hug' seat modules made with Elastollan(R) TPU for the 'EARTH Concept' car within the IONIQ range of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV). Unveiled at Auto China 2026, the concept vehicle underscores Hyundai Design China's commitment to localized new energy vehicle (NEV) mobility solutions in China, supported by BASF's materials expertise and local production at the Zhanjiang Verbund site.
Elastollan TPU combines mechanical strength with stable extrusion processing, providing puncture resistance, durability, weldability and reliable air-sealing performance for repeated inflation cycles in the inflatable 'Air Hug' seat modules.
The innovative material solution expands design freedom, enabling structured color effects through photonic crystal technology and supporting Hyundai EARTH Concept's focus on comfort, aesthetics and functionality with a distinctive interior look. Elastollan TPU also contributes to the 'EARTH Concept' sustainability?driven approach, as it can be recycled both mechanically and chemically.
"Inspired by the vitality and biological balance of our planet, the interior features soft touch surfaces and supportive forms designed for comfort. Elastollan TPU fits this vision perfectly, enabling both ergonomic performance and a distinctive 'Air' aesthetic," said Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center at Hyundai Motor Company. "Our collaboration with BASF has been extremely positive, driven by a shared can-do spirit."
Through close collaboration with Hyundai Design China, BASF's Creation Center translated complex ideas into reality, unlocking new possibilities with Elastollan TPU in the 'EARTH Concept'.
"With Elastollan TPU, BASF incorporates new functional and design concepts for future automotive interiors while meeting stringent performance requirements," said Rohit Roop Ghosh, Vice President, Business Management TPU, Performance Materials Asia Pacific, BASF. "Through co-creation at the BASF Creation Center, we combine materials expertise with application know-how under one roof to support our partners with innovative mobility solutions."