- In March 2025, Continental AG, a leading German automotive components manufacturer, announced the expansion of its automotive rubber components production facility in Hanover, Germany. The expansion focuses on increasing the output of high-performance EPDM seals and hoses tailored for electric vehicles. This move supports Continental’s sustainability roadmap and responds to the growing demand for EV-compatible rubber components in the European market.
- In January 2025, Sumitomo Riko Company Limited, headquartered in Japan, unveiled its new Advanced Anti-Vibration Rubber Components at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025. These components are engineered to support electric and hybrid powertrains by improving ride comfort and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). The new product line is expected to be mass-produced by Q4 2025.
- In November 2024, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, part of Freudenberg Group, announced the development of next-generation rubber gaskets that are highly resistant to bio-based fuels and high-temperature environments. These components aim to support the global shift towards sustainable fuel systems and will be tested in collaboration with European automakers through early 2025.
- In September 2024, Trelleborg AB, a Swedish polymer engineering company, completed the acquisition of a mid-sized Asian rubber molding firm to strengthen its production capacity in Southeast Asia. This strategic acquisition is aligned with Trelleborg’s goal of increasing its presence in cost-effective manufacturing hubs to serve the fast-growing Asia-Pacific automotive market more efficiently.
- In July 2024, NOK Corporation introduced a new high-precision rotary oil seal designed for electric drivetrains, during the Automotive Engineering Exposition 2024 in Yokohama, Japan. The new seal uses advanced fluororubber material that ensures durability and leakage prevention in high-speed, low-friction e-powertrain applications, meeting emerging OEM requirements.
