Spanish firm Ingeteam has developed charging stations for electric cars in close collaboration with Bayer MaterialScience and Policam. For the first time ever, the housing is made of polyurethane (PU): robust Baydur 110 rigid polyurethane foam. Two different versions of the charging stations are available: one suitable for outdoor installation along public roads and on plazas, and a wall-mounted model for installation in private homes.

More than 500 prototypes of the charging stations have already been installed at Spanish supermarkets, parking garages and conference and exhibition centres. So far the charging stations are available only in Spain, but expansion to other countries and continents is possible.

“This development is another example of how Bayer MaterialScience develops solutions for future mobility concepts,” says Alp Sarici, a marketing expert for polyurethane systems. “Unlike other plastic solutions, the polyurethane housings can also be produced profitably in small numbers, not least because the moulds are relatively inexpensive.”

Bayer MaterialScience was involved in the development from the very beginning. The collaboration with Ingeteam was arranged by Policam, a long-standing partner of the Leverkusen company and also the manufacturer of the charging station housings.

With 2011 sales of 10.8 billion euros ($13.3 billion), Bayer MaterialScience is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction and the sports and leisure industries. At the end of 2011, Bayer MaterialScience had 30 production sites and employed approximately 14,800 people around the globe. Bayer MaterialScience is a Bayer Group company.

Spain-based Ingeteam is a market leader specialising in electrical engineering and equipment. Ingeteam primarily serves the energy, industry and transport sectors, and is dedicated to reducing energy consumption while simultaneously maximising efficiency.

Policam, SL is a family owned company, located in Olérdola, close to Vilafranca del Penedés (Barcelona). Since 1999 they have been producing technical pieces made from polyurethanes and are specialised in the processing of Baydur 110, Baydur 20 and Baydur 60 grades.