Italy’s Padanaplast (Roccabianca; www.padanaplast.com), a manufacturer of cross-linkable polyolefin (XLPO) compounds, said it has developed a new halogen-free flame retardant (HFFR) product designed for high-performance wires and cables in electric vehicles. “The surging development of complex hybrid, all-electric and fuel-cell vehicles demands advanced automotive wires and cables to meet a range of voltages and performance criteria,” said Antonello Casale, R&I and technical service chief manager.

The experimental grade “Cogegum” GFR 1709-27 T4 (150oC), is specifically designed for high-voltage, ultra-flexible battery cables in next-generation electric vehicle powertrains. Padanaplast said the compound offers excellent thermal and mechanical performance and resistance to automotive fluids. The company’s existing Cogegum products – GFR 1401-76 and GFR 1401-190 – are intended for T3 (125°C) primary insulation.