Carbon black for EVs – Cabot Corporation debuts Propel E8

Cabot Corporation is offering global customers a new carbon black product. This is Propel E8, an engineered reinforcing carbon black designed to “provide superior tread durability at low rolling resistance for high-performance tyre tread applications,” thereby addressing the challenges posed by heavier and torquier electric vehicles. The Propel E8 grade complements Cabot’s existing solutions within the Propel E series, which are also suitable for use in high-performance tyres.

Tyre wear for EVs is significantly higher than for comparable combustion engine vehicles, and this means more end-of-life tyres over the vehicle’s lifetime as well as higher total cost of ownership. Cabot says its Propel E8 solution tackles these issues by delivering low rolling resistance with increased tread durability to improve tyre lifespan, maximise range and reduce overall tyre waste.

EV tyre treads require a performance balance that’s difficult to meet with traditional, high surface area ASTM carbon blacks. Propel E8 enables better rolling resistance when compared to ASTM N200 and N100 carbon black grades. It also provides high stiffness and modulus with abrasion resistance equal to ASTM N100 series carbon black, adds Cabot.

Connecting to EV industry needs

“At Cabot, we recognise the critical role we have in the rapidly changing mobility landscape and how our product portfolio connects to the needs of the EV industry,” says Aatif Misbah, vice president and general manager, Sustainable Solutions, Reinforcement Materials segment.

“Our Propel E portfolio, including our new Propel E8 solution, makes us well positioned to support EV tyre manufacturers with their various formulation needs as the electrification of vehicle fleets continues to progress at a global scale. Not only do our Propel E solutions deliver performance benefits, but by extending tyre lifespan, our products are helping to reduce waste and the need for frequent tyre replacements, thereby contributing to a more sustainable future.”