Autoliv Introduces New Environmentally Friendly Steering Wheel Material

(Stockholm, October 3, 2008) ---- Autoliv Inc. – the global leader in automotive safety systems – has developed a new material for steering wheels that is more environmentally friendly and offers several other advantages. The new patented product will be introduced on the new 2009 Renault Mégane that will be shown at the upcoming Paris Auto Show.

The new material replaces polyurethane as covering material on the steering wheel rim and other parts of the steering wheel armature. It is a thermoplastic substance that is injection molded onto the magnesium or steel structure of the steering wheel.

The new material is more environmentally friendly since it is recyclable. In addition, the process significantly reduces waste. For instance, there are no edges that need to be peeled off as in the traditional process with polyurethane material.

Since the need for deburring is eliminated and the size of the injection gate is drastically reduced, the quality and the appearance of the steering wheel are improved. The injection moulding process is also much faster than the hardening process used for polyurethane.

In addition the car driver will appreciate the much improved touch-and-feel from the new softer steering wheel.


Inquiries:
Hugues Vendrand, Manager Global Steering Wheel Development +33 5 49 39 61 10
Henrik Kaar, Director Corporate Communications + 46 8 587 20 614