Given the advance in electromobility in the automotive industry, PPG has presented innovations in coatings and special materials and has even entered into alliances for the development of solar vehicles.
Omar Landeros, Automotive Coatings Director at PPG Industries, comments that the company focused on coatings and specialty materials, recently partnered with the Eindhoven University of Technology to develop the Stella Terra, the world’s first all-terrain solar car.
In this regard, he highlights that this innovative collaboration not only represents a technological advance in electric mobility. It also underlines PPG’s focus on protecting and optimizing lithium batteries through its fire protection solution. This intumescent coating expands in the presence of high heat or fire. It provides an insulating layer that protects against thermal damage and improves the safety of both drivers and passengers.
Similarly, he says that in Mexico the adoption of electric mobility is experiencing a significant rise. “This trend, driven by the need to address the climate crisis and reduce our carbon footprint, is aligned with the vision of PPG, a company committed to measurable sustainability goals and working tirelessly to develop products that respond to the market’s demands for innovation and sustainability,” he adds.
PPG has a partnership with Eindhoven University of Technology to develop the Stella Terra, the world’s first solar-powered off-road vehicle.
Omar Landeros affirms that the energy transition towards electromobility in transportation must take into account various factors, such as the development of technologies, the implementation of public policies and the promotion of the use of electric vehicles. This joint effort by industry, government and civil society is vital to overcome the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities that electric mobility offers.
He adds that, although the implementation of electric and hybrid vehicles represents a high initial investment, the development of the automotive industry in Mexico has been growing, which could reduce the cost of acquiring vehicles and, in this way, with With the push from the different sectors involved, the purchase of hybrid and electric vehicles could increase.
Electromobility not only brings about improvements in transport efficiency, but also brings environmental benefits. However, electric mobility should be accompanied by the generation of electricity based on renewable sources, which could lead to more sustainable development in the transport sector.
Omar Landeros continues by saying that electric mobility has positioned itself at the centre of the debate on sustainability and efficiency in transport.
This trend, which points to a future less dependent on fossil fuels, has experienced exponential growth in recent years. According to global data, the number of electric vehicles has increased from 3.1 million in 2017 to more than 20 million in 2022.
This change is crucial to combat climate change. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the average gasoline car emits about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year.
In contrast, an electric vehicle produces zero direct greenhouse gas emissions; However, the transition to electric mobility presents significant challenges, especially with regard to the safety and durability of lithium batteries, a key element in the operation of these vehicles.
