Zircotec, which specialises in high-temperature coating and heat-barrier processes, has been shortlisted in the Automotive Innovation 2013 Awards run by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The company, based in Asingdon, Oxfordshire, has been nominated for its ThermoHold for Composites coating technology which is used, among other applications, for motorcycle exhausts.
The firm is to be featured in the November issue of British Dealer News.
Now in its fourth year, the SMMT award showcases the UK’s capabilities in automotive design and engineering by identifying exceptional innovations that have the potential to transform the industry. Zircotec’s submission, to enable lightweight composites to be specified in applications where previously it was not possible, enabled Aston Martin to use ThermoHold® for Composites to protect heat sensitive composite areas on its One-77 supercar.
Zircotect has other shortlisted submissions from the likes of Ford and McLaren. “With entries from leading vehicle manufacturers, we are delighted to be in contention alongside such respected brands,” says Terry Graham, Zircotec’s managing director. “Our coating assists vehicle engineers achieve weight, performance and efficiency targets through the use of lightweight materials,” adds Graham.
The Aston Martin One-77 was the first road application of the technology but the Abingdon firm is already talking to other manufacturers about using the coating on future cars.
The winner will be announced at the SMMT awards dinner in London on 26 November.
Zircotec up for award
