Yahoo Finance

SHANGHAI, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- 3M, a diversified technology company, is making its debut at the 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (Auto Shanghai) April 23-May 2. The company is showcasing its latest innovations and material science solutions for the automotive industry—from manufacturing to aftermarket—under the theme of "Beyond Wheels, Beyond Tomorrow."

"As an innovator in materials science, 3M is committed to driving the automotive industry's transformation towards electrification, intelligence, and sustainability," said Henry Ding, president of 3M China. "By leveraging our global R&D network and localized innovation, we aim to build a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future of mobility, contributing to the high-quality development of China's automotive industry,"

Key industry trends and insights

3M's presence at Auto Shanghai 2025 will highlight its commitment to addressing key industry trends, including:

• Mass adoption of electric vehicles: Driven by regulations, incentives, and consumer confidence.

• Software-defined vehicles: Allowing updates, customization, and future enhancements.

• Sustainability and lightweighting: Designing for recyclability, the right to repair, reduced energy consumption and improved performance.

• Vehicle personalization: Pursuing the ultimate passenger experience through advances in infotainment and customized finishes.

• Interiors of the future: Enhancing passenger comfort and improving safety features.

According to 3M's 2025 State of Science Insights, a global survey on transformative industry trends, 74% of Chinese respondents prefer to drive an electric or hybrid vehicle, significantly more than the global average of 53%. Battery range is the top concern for 58% of Chinese respondents, while comfort (67%), environmental impact (66%), and entertainment (66%) are the most important vehicle features.

Innovative solutions for the future of mobility

3M's presence at Auto Shanghai showcases how the brand is applying science and collaborating with manufacturers to meet evolving trends and consumer expectations. Solutions on display include:

• Battery protection solutions: Thermal interface materials and thermal runaway propagation mitigation solutions to extend the range and lifespan of EV batteries.

• Assembly simplification: 3M™ VHB™ Extrudable Tape and stretch release technology for efficient assembly and disassembly of EV battery packs.

• Human-machine interaction (HMI): Light control films to enhance in-car display brightness and contrast and reduce windshield reflection.

• Comfort and Personalization: 3M™ Automotive Window Film for heat rejection and UV protection, and 3M car wrap films for customization.

• Component and vehicle lightweighting: 3M™ Glass Bubbles can be added to various materials used in injection molding, sealing, and high-pressure spray application processes to reduce weight while maintaining performance.