The International Suppliers Fair (IZB) will take place in Wolfsburg from 22-24 October 2024. Europe’s trade fair for automotive industry suppliers is the sector’s leading communication and business platform with more than 900 international exhibitors and around 45,000 visitors.
This year, the trade fair primarily focuses on topics that are decisively shaping the transformation of the automotive industry: Digitalisation, electromobility, and networked driving. LEONHARD KURZ is already developing pioneering solutions that support these trends and lay the foundation for tomorrow’s mobility. At Stand 1503 in Hall 1, the thin-film specialist from Fürth, Germany, will be showcasing advanced series-production-capable technologies for the design of decorative and functional surfaces in the interior and exterior of vehicles.
Brilliant design and smart technology
A highlight at the KURZ stand is the Crystal Steering Wheel design concept, which was developed in cooperation with Swarovski Mobility. The futuristic steering wheel is equipped with genuine Swarovski crystals, which lend the interior a touch of luxury and exclusivity. The backlit crystals can be colour-coordinated with the vehicle interior and impress with their unique visual depth. But the actual groundbreaking innovation is only revealed at a second glance: Thanks to the transparent sensor technology by KURZ subsidiary PolyIC, the fully ground crystals enable the control of various vehicle functions. The sensors consisting of wafer-thin metal-mesh silver structures can be flexibly adapted to a wide range of component geometries and do not affect the recyclability of plastic components.
Innovative automotive front panel concepts combine design and function
Autonomous driving requires cutting-edge technologies that enable reliable Car2X communication. At IZB, KURZ will be exhibiting a front panel that is radar- and LiDAR-permeable and thus meets the requirements of the future. At the same time, the concept impresses with its smooth, homogeneous surface, which is manufactured and finished in a single highly efficient work step, despite the impressive dimensions of 1,130 x 290 x 160 mm (W x H x D). This is made possible by KURZ’s advanced In-Mould Decoration (IMD) process. In combination with hybrid technologies such as laser ablation, hot stamping, or digital printing, this opens up numerous possibilities for decorating and customising the front panel. At IZB, KURZ will demonstrate how the surface can be made translucent by laser engraving and can be provided with customer-specific brand statements such as logos or lettering. The front panel, which is made from polycarbonate, is also recyclable as a complete component.