Yutong and BASF launch advanced polyurethane-based seating for buses

• BASF’s first integrated seating system with Yutong contributes to sustainability in commercial vehicles
• Improved flame-retardant properties of BASF’s Elastoflex polyurethane meet fire safety standards of coaches and intercity all-seater buses

Shanghai, China – July 30, 2020 – Yutong Bus Co., Ltd. (Yutong), the world’s leading bus manufacturer, and BASF have jointly developed an advanced polyurethane (PU) based seating for high-end, new-energy buses. Optimized to provide improved flame-retardant properties, the seating made with BASF’s Elastoflex PU complies with the European directive “ECE Regulation No.118” for flame resistance.

“This is the first time BASF has developed an integrated PU seating system that improves passenger safety and comfort in electric buses as well as reducing odors inside bus cabins. With our expertise in advanced materials and PU technology, we can help Yutong meet the high flame resistance standard for electric bus seating,” said Desmond Long, Vice President, Business Management Transportation, Performance Materials Asia Pacific.

The foam-cushioned seating made with Elastoflex additionally provides a comfortable travel experience for passengers due to its elasticity. Its low odor property further improves the vehicle’s interior air quality.  

The seating also provides environmental benefits owing to its durability and lightweight. The durability of Elastoflex, which helps to extend its service life, allows the seat to retain its cushioning effect and comfort, even after being subject to prolonged weight stress. The lightweight foam material improves the vehicle’s energy efficiency and thus lowers emissions levels. 

About BASF’s Performance Materials division

BASF’s Performance Materials division encompasses the entire materials’ know-how of BASF regarding innovative, customized plastics under one roof. Globally active in four major industry sectors – transportation, construction, industrial applications and consumer goods – the division has a strong portfolio of products and services combined with deep understanding of application-oriented system solutions. Key drivers of profitability and growth are our close collaboration with customers and a clear focus on solutions. Strong capabilities in R&D provide the basis to develop innovative products and applications. In 2019, the Performance Materials division achieved global sales of €6.06 bn. More information online: www.plastics.basf.com.

About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 117,000 employees in the BASF Group work on contributing to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €59 billion in 2019. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S. Further information at www.basf.com.