Covestro, Genofort target automotive haptics with TPU film technology
Covestro has signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese printed electronics specialist Genofort to jointly develop ultra-flexible haptic interaction systems for automotive interiors, with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) films forming the core substrate technology.
The partnership will focus on integrating printed electronics into interior components including centre consoles, steering wheels, door panels, seats and headliners. The companies said the systems are intended to support functions such as touch-sensitive controls, body-shape sensing, adaptive comfort systems, thermal regulation and health monitoring.
Under the agreement, Covestro will lead research, development and industrialisation of TPU film substrates for the systems. The company said TPU films were selected because of their flexibility, durability, ink adhesion, processing versatility and long-term stability, all of which are required for flexible printed electronics integrated into complex three-dimensional automotive surfaces.
“The next generation of intelligent cockpits places entirely new demands on interior materials. They must not only conform to complex surfaces, but also enable sensing and interaction functions,” said Weihong Du, head of marketing and development Asia-Pacific, specialty films at Covestro.
“Through our collaboration with Genofort, we aim to bring material innovation and system integration closely together, helping advance flexible haptic interaction technology from the laboratory to large-scale production and delivering differentiated solutions for automotive customers.”
Genofort specializes in printed electronics and haptic interaction assembly systems. Covestro said the collaboration would create a more integrated value chain linking advanced TPU film substrates with electronic system integration.
The announcement also reflects growing interest in TPU films for automotive interior electronics and smart-surface applications. Covestro has recently highlighted TPU-based specialty films for flexible printed electronics, electroluminescent features and interactive automotive surfaces at events including Techtextil and LOPEC 2026.
“Ultra-flexible haptic interaction systems represent a critical direction for the intelligent transformation of automotive interiors,” said Lingyao Lu, chairman of Genofort.
“Covestro’s leadership in high-performance film materials forms a powerful complement to our proprietary system integration technology. This collaboration will accelerate the global adoption of ultra-flexible printed electronics, enable us to enter the global premium supply chain, and together open new frontiers in this arena.”
The companies also said they planned to jointly support development of industry standards for ultra-flexible haptic technologies, which they believe could help accelerate commercialisation of intelligent cockpit systems.
Photo: The collaboration will focus on key automotive interior applications including steering wheels, to enhance both occupant comfort and cabin intelligence.