SGL CARBON GROUP has signed a contract with a North American automobile manufacturer to mass-produce carbon fiber and glass fiber-based composite top and bottom layers for electric vehicle battery housings.
Prior to this, SGL built a prototype battery case for a Chinese automaker in 2018. Mass production of these components will begin at the end of 2020.
In addition, SGL won a contract for a small batch production of a European sports car manufacturer, and began mass production of the bottom layer made of composite materials from mid-2020. The company said it is also in talks with other car manufacturers to develop and manufacture their battery housing solutions for electric vehicles.
Sebastian Grasser, head of SGL ’s automotive division, said: “Due to the growing global demand for electric vehicles, the demand for new flexible chassis is increasing. Our composite battery case is the most promising in our product portfolio New applications. "
The battery casing in electric vehicles usually occupies most of the space under the chassis. The material must also protect the underbody from impact, and provide thermal management and fire protection as well as complete impermeability to water and gas.