More, thanks to less

A big advantage of electric vehicles is that they offer more storage space. One reason for this is that electric motors are smaller than classic combustion engines. On the other hand, certain components such as manual transmissions are no longer needed at all.

New possibilities

This additional space can be used creatively for such things like tubs made of high-performance plastic. These multi-functional tubs find space in the front of the vehicle, acting much like a front trunk, aptly named the "frunk".  

Storage space with a plus

Our ideas go far beyond mere storage space. For special applications, the tubs can be integrated with various components: Seals, water drainage, spare wheel components, electronic and electromagnetic shielding, cable or fluid management and much more. 

Light, stable and individualized 

To ensure that the new components do not add unnecessary weight, our tape technology is used. We support / reinforce our plastics locally with glass and carbon fibers. This is also particularly cost-efficient: Compared to metal components, our solutions are on average 30 percent lighter and cheaper. Combined with our "One-Shot" design, this creates the basis for new storage spaces - highly individualized, resistant, with flexible variants and optimally sealed. 

The most important highlights

• Lightweight application specific material with validated mechanical performance & material cards
• "one-shot" design offering cost- & weight savings and packaging reduction 
• Lighter
• Less thickness
• Best use of package space due to highest level of design freedom
• Extended range due to light weight, up to 30 % reduction cf. with steel / aluminum per m² 
• Robust Design with outstanding long-term durability and corrosion resistance
• Best in class tightness due to one-shot and one-piece design. Continues sealing surface without interruptions
• Functional integration or assembly of sealing and additional buy parts with low-cost solutions

Your customer benefit through our Tubs

Design freedom

• Wall thickness tailored to application between 1,8 and >5 mm
• Best in class packaging usage 
• Best tightness performance
• Hybrid design with local reinforcement possible with metal, or infinite fibers 

Functional integration

• Gasket
• Drain plugs
• Spare wheels
• Additional fire-resistant materials
• Management of fluid conduits, cables, etc.

Material overview

• Injection molding PP-GFXY & PA6-GF
• Compression molding PP-GFXY & PA6-GF 
• Tape integration for local reinforcement 

Processing capabilities

• Various press sizes and manufacturing methods

Cost reduction

• Stacked tool concepts for injection molding
• Multi cavity tool for D-LFT and SMC compression molding depending on component footprint
• In-house developed materials for compounding of thermoplastic injection molding and compression molding

Full service from Röchling

• Ability to design, develop, and produce the complete cover tailored to customer requirements
• Structural simulation in-house available
• Simulation for processing in development
• validation from material up to product level
• Over 20 years in tubs and high-performance plastics development & series production
• Long-term experience in end-of-line testing (tightness & quality control)
• Global footprint for prototyping and series application