#United States #Northville #Cooper Standard #FlexiCore #Lightweighting Award

Cooper Standard's FlexiCore™ Thermoplastic Body Seal Receives SAA Innovations Award

In a remarkable achievement, Cooper Standard has been honored with the prestigious Innovations in Lightweighting Award by the Society of Automotive Analysts (SAA) for its groundbreaking product, the FlexiCore™ Thermoplastic Body Seal. This accolade recognizes the significant impact of innovative materials in modern automotive design, particularly in enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

The SAA presented this award during their annual Material Innovations Summit held on December 6 in Wyandotte, Michigan. This recognition reinforces the growing trend in the automotive sector towards integrating lightweight, eco-friendly materials in vehicle manufacturing. The FlexiCore™ seal has already garnered attention, being a finalist for the 2025 Automotive News PACE Pilot Award for its cutting-edge technology.

The FlexiCore™ Thermoplastic Body Seal

The FlexiCore™ Thermoplastic Body Seal revolutionizes traditional vehicle sealing mechanisms by replacing heavy metal components with a lightweight, durable plastic alternative. This innovative design reduces overall vehicle weight by up to 44%, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and optimizing vehicle performance. Furthermore, the seal is 100% recyclable, aligning perfectly with the automotive industry's commitment to sustainability.

Patrick Clark, the president of Sealing Systems at Cooper Standard, expressed pride in receiving such recognition. He stated, "As the mobility industry continues to evolve, we are dedicated to providing innovative solutions that meet the critical needs of our customers in terms of sustainability, performance, and cost efficiency. Our FlexiCore body seal represents a significant advancement in design, with the potential to positively influence future vehicle models."

Importance of Advanced Materials in Modern Automobiles

The increasing emphasis on advanced materials, such as those represented by Cooper Standard's FlexiCore, is crucial for improving the performance and reducing the emissions of modern vehicles. As the automotive landscape shifts more towards hybrid and electric vehicles, utilizing lightweight materials becomes imperative. These materials help minimize the weight burden of power systems, like batteries and electric motors, directly improving overall efficiency and extending the electric range of vehicles.

The Society of Automotive Analysts (SAA) underlines the vital role that advanced materials play in achieving these goals. They aim to provide insights into industry trends and innovations, offering networking opportunities and access to essential automotive data for professionals.

Cooper Standard: A Leader in Material Innovation

Headquartered in Northville, Michigan, Cooper Standard is a key player in the automotive supply industry, specializing in sealing and fluid management systems worldwide. The company operates in 21 countries and employs over 22,000 individuals committed to creating innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of diverse transportation sectors. Their focus on sustainability and continuous innovation has established Cooper Standard as a recognized leader within the industry.

Through the development and recognition of products like the FlexiCore™ Thermoplastic Body Seal, Cooper Standard showcases its dedication to advancing automotive technology while embracing a sustainable future. For further information about their initiatives and innovations, visit Cooper Standard's website or engage with them on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram.

In conclusion, Cooper Standard's accolades for the FlexiCore™ seal not only highlight the company's innovation but also signal a pivotal shift in the automotive industry's approach to sustainability and performance. As consumers and manufacturers become increasingly conscious of environmental impacts, advancements like these are likely to define the future of automotive design.