PARTNER STRATEGY
This innovative material is the product of advanced scientific research at the GM R&D Center in Warren, Mich. and an exclusive GM development agreement with Basell, the world's largest producer of polypropylene resins for plastics; and Southern Clay Products, Inc. of Gonzales, Texas, which mines and processes the ultrapure "smectite" clay additive. The step-assist parts are molded by Blackhawk Automotive Plastics, Inc. of Mason, Ohio.
"This is an excellent example of our partnering strategy," said Taub. "We believe partnerships are the fastest way to bring innovative technology to the marketplace. Just about two and a half years ago, GM and Basell (then Montell) announced joint development of a new family of thermoplastic olefins for exterior and interior applications."
"R&D best describes the roles that GM and Basell played in the commercialization of the step-assist," said William J. Windscheif, global business vice president, Advanced Polyolefins, Basell. "GM represents the 'research' in R&D, and Basell, the 'development.' As GM successfully created the chemistry necessary to achieve all the positive attributes the nanocomposite material brings to the step-assist, Basell developed the technology necessary to industrialize the new material within Basell's manufacturing facilities."
Basell's manufacturing expertise was demonstrated as the company, working with GM and its partners, maximized the benefits of clay exfoliation in the new TPO composition, according to Windscheif.