In order to serve India’s growing automotive market for both two-wheel and four-wheel vehicles, BASF India will soon expand its manufacturing capacity of Cellasto® while at the same time cease manufacturing of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) at its Dahej plant in Gujarat. The move is in line with the changing customer needs in the South Asia region.

The expansion project includes a new production line, and will supplement Cellasto’s testing equipment installed earlier this year. Going forward, BASF will supply South Asia markets with TPU, used in the manufacture of industrial hoses, elevator belts and footwear, from its global network.

According to Raman Ramachandran, Chairman and Managing Director, BASF India Limited and Head - South Asia, “We continue to stay close to our customers by adjusting our production, to meet their changing needs. For instance, by 2030, India is slated to be among the three largest automotive manufacturers worldwide. To be able to meet this demand, our manufacturing facilities need to be efficient and effective. We are confident that by refocusing our manufacturing capabilities, we will be able to achieve greater efficiency while better addressing our customers’ expectations and needs.”

Cellasto is the trade name for components made of BASF cellular polyurethane elastomers, mainly used in the suspension system, to reduce NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) in automotive vehicles.