PPG opens $30 million battery pack application center in China

PPG has opened the Battery Pack Application Center (BPAC) in Tianjin, China. The $30 million center features comprehensive capabilities to test PPG coating technologies, materials and systems for electric vehicle (EV) battery packs, helping customers accelerate the development of new EV technologies.

"The new application center is an important milestone in our support of customers in the Chinese EV battery market," said Vincent Robin, PPG global vice president of automotive coatings. "The new facility will be an important way for customers to validate our customized coating solutions that help them reduce application costs, extend battery life, increase range and charging speed, and improve occupant safety."

The BPAC will include application testing of PPG technologies, including powder coatings, fire retardant coatings, dielectric coatings, adhesives and sealants, surface preparation and electrophoretic technologies. Its modular design allows independent projects to be carried out simultaneously in each application area. This flexibility will enable PPG to develop material and process solutions for existing and potential customers.

"The application center showcases PPG’s work in electric vehicle battery R&D and application technology, while playing an important role in developing our local talent in Tianjin," said Thomas Li, vice president of PPG automotive coatings in Asia Pacific. "It highlights our commitment to developing sustainable, cutting-edge technologies in China and providing value-added solutions to our customers."