Exxtral Polypropylenes Specified by PSA and Visteon for Citroen C4 and Peugeot 1007 Interiors

HOUSTON--Oct. 5, 2004--PSA Peugeot Citroen (PSA) has selected several Exxtral(TM) compounded polypropylene (PP) grades for the interior of its new Citroen C4 and Peugeot 1007 models, both unveiled last week at the Paris Motor Show. This selection reinforces ExxonMobil Chemical's position as a key supplier of thermoplastics to the automotive industry.

Car manufacturer PSA and equipment maker Visteon have selected several Exxtral PP grades for the interior trim of both models (instrument panel, console, lower and upper trim and other interior components) because of their technical performance and processability.

For the Citroen C4's interior, the manufacturer selected the new generation compound Exxtral BMT 106, which has been specifically developed for automotive cockpit applications. This low-density compound, which exhibits high-stiffness, enables a lighter instrument panel to be manufactured without compromising aesthetics or safety.

For the console and the lower trim of the C4, a high crystallinity unfilled PP (Exxtral BNU 011) was specified because of its impact properties. This product is easily colored and offers excellent UV stability for the life of the car.

Delighted with the performance of Exxtral in the Citroen C4, PSA has also specified Exxtral BMT106 for the Peugeot 1007's instrument panel and Exxtral BNU011 for the console and the upper trim.

Patrice Szczygiel, sales manager Europe, ExxonMobil Chemical automotive business, said: "The Citroen C4 and the Peugeot 1007 symbolize the continuous innovation brought to the Exxtral range. The use of these polypropylenes is the result of a close technical collaboration between PSA Peugeot Citroen, Visteon and ExxonMobil Chemical's Lillebonne plant, located in France. All three have the common objective of making every launch a commercial success."

Exxtral PP compounds are used in many PSA Peugeot Citroen models (including the Peugeot 206, 307, 407 and 807, and the Citroen C3, C5, C8, Picasso and Berlingo).