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This milestone marks the debut of DURABIO^TM in an Audi interior application. The new door switch panel – crafted from a single DURABIO^TM molded component – offers significant improvements in manufacturing efficiency, design flexibility, and environmental performance.

A Leap Forward in Design and Efficiency

The switch panel, designed with three distinct textures – shiny high-gloss, grained, and matte – demonstrates DURABIO^TM’s exceptional molding versatility. This capability eliminates the need for multiple components and post-processing steps such as painting, streamlining production and reducing costs. The mold-in-color functionality not only delivers a premium finish, such as the selected piano black, but also supports a broad color range for future customization.

 “We’re proud to partner with Audi on this project and showcase how DURABIO^TM aligns with their values of quality, innovation, and environmental responsibility,” said Nicolas Sawaguchi, Business Development Manager Performance Polymers EMEA at Mitsubishi Chemical.

Sustainability Through Innovation

Developed by Mitsubishi Chemical, DURABIO^TM is a partially bio-based engineering polymer derived from isosorbide. Thanks to the addition of bio-based material, it significantly reduces the consumption of fossil fuel-based materials. The elimination of painting processes minimizes CO₂ emissions, waste, and VOCs.

With superior resistance to weathering, impacts, and scratches, DURABIO^TM is ideally suited for high-quality interior applications that demand both aesthetic excellence and durability.

The project underscores Mitsubishi Chemical’s commitment to advancing sustainable mobility through material innovation.

Additional information

• “DURABIO™” Product Website
  https://www.m-chemical.co.jp/en/products/departments/mcc/pc/product/1201026_9368.html

• “Audi Q3” Product Website
  https://www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/audi-q3-56