Keywords
Citation
(2005), "BASF Coatings introduces waterborne automotive basecoat technology in China", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 34 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/prt.2005.12934eab.009
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
BASF Coatings introduces waterborne automotive basecoat technology in China
BASF Coatings introduces waterborne automotive basecoat technology in China
Keywords: Coatings technology, Environmental health and safety
An Shanghai General Motors (SGM) Excelle painted with BASF waterborne basecoats has rolled off the General Motors assembly line in Shanghai, marking the first use of waterborne basecoat technology in the history of the Chinese automobile industry. The Excelle is designed expressly for the Chinese market.
The introduction of waterborne basecoat technology in China is a major milestone for BASF Coatings Shanghai and SGM. Waterborne coatings emit significantly fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and require fewer hazardous components than the solventborne coatings used in China almost exclusively until now.
“BASF is the first company to successfully launch waterborne basecoats with a customer in China”, said Rainer Blair, Group Vice President for BASF's Global Automotive Coatings Solutions business. “The launch demonstrates a key part of BASF's global strategy – being first to market with environmentally sustainable products that offer `intelligent solutions' for our customers, no matter where in the world they are located”.
Environmentally friendly waterborne automotive paints have been used in Europe and North America for nearly 20 years, and the trend is growing. In China, however, waterborne coatings have been virtually unknown until now. Blair expects the introduction of waterborne technology in China to dramatically change market dynamics in terms of vehicle finish quality and environmental sustainability.
“BASF is perfectly positioned to play a decisive role in converting all of the automobile manufacturers in China to waterborne technology”, said Blair. “Our complete portfolio of proven waterborne coatings and expert service teams enable us to get a smoothly functioning waterborne paint process up and running quickly and precisely”.
Blair said that BASF's proprietary “zero headaches” launch management process helped contribute to the flawless introduction of the technology. “`Zero headaches' is BASF's unique approach of partnering with our customers in innovative ways to help them be more competitive and productive. This new kind of partnership involves close and early collaboration between BASF and its customers to provide the best products and expert technical support that, together, deliver quality solutions at the lowest total cost”.
Blair emphasised that BASF Coatings is committed to the automobile industry and to helping its customers worldwide be more successful. He cited the introduction of waterborne automotive coatings in China as an example of that commitment.
“We are also very serious about our responsibility for protecting the environment and future generations around the world”, said Blair, “and we are proud to be the first in launching waterborne technology in China”.