TactoTek licenses IMSE Technology to Polestar and expands operations in Japan
Finnish smart surface pioneer TactoTek and Polestar, the Swedish electric performance car brand, have entered a collaboration to explore integration of Injection Molded Structural Electronics (IMSE) technology into Polestar’s vehicle programs. The collaboration includes Polestar licensing TactoTek’s IMSE technology, products, and solutions to explore innovative lighting and human-machine interface (HMI) use cases. TactoTek has also announced that it is expanding its operations in Japan. The new TactoTek KK, Tokyo, will serve Japan an other Asian-Pacific markets.
IMSE parts are manufactured using clean additive processes. Because a single IMSE part typically performs the functions of a conventional multi-part assembly, designing for IMSE reduces complexity and streamlines global supply chains. By seamlessly integrating electronics, such as lights and controllers, into thin conformal plastic structures, IMSE technology enables advanced lighting features and Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) that are both more sustainable and aesthetically appealing.
Licensing TactoTek IMSE technology is an opportunity for OEMs to enhance their design differentiation. With its single piece construction, IMSE simplifies structures and significantly reduces weight, it also minimises PCB assemblies and their negative environmental impacts. TactoTek’s suite of technology transfer resources enables Polestar designers to incorporate the full range of IMSE technology, including decorative and brand illumination, into their newest designs. Jussi Harvela, CEO of TactoTEk, says: "Polestar’s licensing of IMSE technology is a testament to its significant sustainability benefits – with the potential to cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50%, our technology seamlessly integrates with Polestar’s vision of building sustainable solutions while delivering exceptional customer experiences."
Strong business relationships with Japan, including licensees and investors
Moreover, TactoTek has announced that it has expanded its operations in Japan. Therefore, it has set up TactoTek KK with offices in Tokyo, from which it will serve Japan and other Asia-Pacific markets. In conjunction with expanding its presence in Japan, the company has been selected to receive a Tokyo Metropolitan Government subsidy for green technology transformation.
TactoTek has strong business relationships in Japan, including several licensees, and investors such as Cornes and Marklines. Makoto Seki, Senior Managing Director of Cornes Technologies Ltd.: "TactoTek’s IMSE technology is transformational: it enables design innovation for OEMs, offers meaningful advances in environmental performance, and supports creating advanced manufacturing jobs in Japan." With its growing presence in Japan, TactoTek will support licensees and work directly with OEMs and brands to facilitate their adoption of IMSE technology in automotive and other industries.
Sami Hyyryläinen, TactoTek SVP Sales and Business Development, has relocated to Tokyo to expand TactoTek’s market presence: "With accelerating interest in our IMSE technology across market segments, we are investing in our long-term presence in Japan to support our licensees and help OEMs and brands realise the full range of benefits of IMSE technology, from design innovation and simplifying supply chains, to step-function improvements in sustainability."
About TactoTek
TactoTek, Oy (Oulu, Finland), is a world leader in developing and licensing injection-molded structural electronics (IMSE) technologies. Automotive, aviation, connected home, industrial control and medical brands use TactoTek innovations to create next-generation user experiences that are compelling, differentiated, and more sustainable. Designers use TactoTek IP to integrate circuits and components directly into plastic parts, transforming conventional structures into smart interactive surfaces. TactoTek licenses its intellectual property, including 250 patents and critical know-how developed over a decade of intensive R&D and quality testing, to global manufacturers who use reliable, standardized manufacturing processes to produce curved-shape and conformal electronics.
About Polestar
Polestar is the Swedish electric performance car brand determined to improve society by using design and technology to accelerate the shift to sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, its cars are available in 27 markets globally across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
Caption: IMSE technology from TactoTek enables advanced lighting features and Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) that are both more sustainable and aesthetically appealing. (Picture: TactoTek)