Hyundai Transys and BASF unveil modular concept seat using Elastollan^® TPU with SCF injection foaming technology

• Headrest and armrest made for the first time with the advanced material innovation by BASF

Seoul, Korea, November 5, 2025 – Hyundai Transys and BASF have co-developed a modular concept seat for purpose-built vehicles (PBV), showcasing how the advanced material solution of Elastollan^® thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) processed with Supercritical Fluid (SCF) injection foaming technology, can support customizable and sustainable seating solutions for automotive interiors. The modular concept seat features a headrest and armrest made with the advanced material solution for the first time.

“Our collaboration with Hyundai Transys exemplifies how material innovation and design thinking can converge to shape the future of mobility,” said Andy Postlethwaite, Senior Vice President, Performance Materials Asia Pacific. “Elastollan TPU is 100% recyclable, and when combined with SCF injection foaming technology, it offers a smart and sustainable solution for automotive interiors.”

First introduced to the footwear industry, this material innovation is now being applied to automotive interiors. It allows tier suppliers and OEMs to create lightweight, abrasion-resistant components with a soft-touch feel and premium look. This is attributable to the SCF injection foaming technology, which evenly disperses gas to produce a uniform fine-cell structured foam – resulting in improved mechanical performance, lower density and lower volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.  

Additionally, no crosslinking or chemical blowing agents are used in the foaming process, enabling post-consumer recyclability with easy disassembly and reuse. This supports automotive companies’ compliance with the EU’s proposed End-of-Life Vehicle Regulation (ELVR), which emphasizes circular design principles. As less energy is required during production, overall energy consumption is reduced, which helps companies to meet carbon neutrality and emission reduction goals. End users may also enjoy cost-to-own (CTO) benefits at the point of disposal.

About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. Our ambition: We want to be the preferred chemical company to enable our customers’ green transformation. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 112,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises, as core businesses, the segments Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, and Nutrition & Care; our standalone businesses are bundled in the segments Surface Technologies and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €65.3 billion in 2024. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com.

About BASF’s Performance Materials division 

BASF’s Performance Materials division leads the transformation of the plastics industry by merging sustainability with a competitive edge. Our broad material competencies and product portfolio, backed by deep industry knowledge and understanding, make us the ideal one-stop-shop. With dedicated material-focused teams and strong R&D power, we constantly deliver industry-leading technologies and expertise to our customers worldwide. Our global network ensures a competitive advantage through superior innovations, regional proximity, and tailor-made solutions that meet local market demands. We are committed to enhancing performance and efficiency across sectors such as automotive, consumer goods, industrial applications, and construction. With BASF, our partners embark on #OurPlasticsJourney towards a more circular and sustainable future. In 2024, the Performance Materials division achieved global sales of €6.8 billion. Join #OurPlasticsJourney on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/basf-performance-materials/ and in our newsletter https://plastics-rubber.basf.com/global/en/performance_polymers/plastics-journey-newsletter