Press release
China
November 27, 2020

Evonik supports university racers to win Formula Student China

The Formula Student China 2020 concluded recently in Xiangyang, Hubei province. DIAN Racing team from Tongji University won the championship in the electric car category. As the team sponsor, Evonik provided technical guidance, advanced materials, 3D-printing technologies for the design and manufacture of the winner car.

In this year’s Formula Student China 2020, DIAN Racing team selected ROHACELL® ultra-lightweight foam for the bodywork. As for the components, young racers boldly attempted to use 3D printing technology and flame-retardant polyamide 12 of Evonik to manufacture the battery module frame, controller housing structure, etc. 3D-printing technology is more applicable to manufacture complex structures and effectively reduce car weight, cycle times and costs.

Evonik timely responded to the team’s demands. With its high strength, excellent flame resistance and high processing precision, INFINAM® PA 6004 P was the best choice to produce components like battery cells, electric-controlling system, body aerodynamic kit, cooling system, etc. For example, with the 3D-printing technology, the module frame achieved an overall weight reduction of 1,000 grams and met flame resistance with a V0 rating to better protect the cells. The hollow keel reduced weight by 15% compared to traditional parts of the same location, while maintaining good mechanical performance and fatigue resistance. Meanwhile, the front compartment of the battery box accomplished a complex layout structure with good flame resistance and mechanical performance.

“Evonik has a long history of cooperation with DIAN Racing,” said Fuchao Hong, director of Performance Materials, “The team has adopted ROHACELL® core materials into the race car bodies in previous competitions. This year, I am glad to see the students opted for 3D-printing technology. Their excellent performance showcases the many advantages of additive manufacturing in automotive applications, including aspects of manufacturing efficiency, lightweight design and performance optimization. Going forward, we expect to establish an even closer cooperation with the team to explore the many possibilities of the material applications.”

About DIAN Racing

DIAN Racing is the Formula Student Electric team from the Shanghai Tongji University, focusing on the design and manufacture of cutting-edge electric race cars to compete in International Formula Student events. Evonik has sponsored DIAN Racing since 2016 in an effort to further explore product applications and support the young generation’s innovative practices in automotive design and manufacturing. In the partnership, Evonik provides industry knowledge and state-of-the-art materials, while the team develops ideas.

About Formula Student China (FSC)

FSC is an automobile design and manufacturing competition involving teams of university students majoring in automotive engineering or automotive-related fields.

Company information

Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The company is active in more than 100 countries around the world and generated sales of €13.1 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €2.15 billion in 2019. Evonik goes far beyond chemistry to create innovative, profitable and sustainable solutions for customers. More than 32,000 employees work together for a common purpose: We want to improve life, today and tomorrow.

Asia Pacific is a strong driving force of the global economy and an important source of innovation. Consequently Evonik endeavors to further grow its business in the region. Sales reached €2.87 billion in 2019 and the company employs over 5,000 people at more than 50 production sites in Asia Pacific.

Disclaimer

In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.