Story
The Material Effects enable autonomous future
Autonomous driving systems (ADAS) are reshaping mobility. The SUE People Mover – developed, designed and built by UE | STUDIOS – enables autonomous operation on public roads, uniting advanced technology with user-centric design and services. Covestro supported the material development process with their unique expertise and supplied materials.
Story · October 6, 2025
About the Project
SUE is an autonomous People Mover developed for future applications in public transportation. The vehicle and its software are 100% developed, designed and made in Germany. Find out more about the project and stay tuned for the upcoming reveal of SUE on the UE | STUDIOS (opens in a new tab) website.
The Material Effect – Video Series
The Material Effect
The Material Effect is elevating materials into solutions that matter. By fusing premium materials with specialized expertise, we bridge laboratory and industrial scale development. This powerful combination of material science, process- and application development enables breakthrough performance. It's not just about what our materials are – it's about what Covestro enables you to achieve.
A revolution you can see through
Experience large, curved 3D Makrolon® windows that transform rides with stunning 360° views. These wraparound windows feature no A-pillar design for unobstructed panoramic visibility, with the windshield spanning 381 cm in length. Makrolon® glazing offers weight savings, efficient thermal management, and design freedom. Makrolon® is available with bio-circular attributed certified feedstock via mass balance, offering options up to a zero-carbon footprint.
The eyes of the vehicle
Stunning design takes autonomous driving to the next level. Makrolon® integrates sensors seamlessly in autonomous exterior design. With excellent sensor transparency, Makrolon® is crucial for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, as it ensures high sensing range and stable signal quality. Makrolon® protects LiDAR and RADAR systems safely, guiding you smoothly to your destination.
Sensory Revolution
Arfinio® debuts in vehicle interiors. Experience the world's first sensory interior on the road. Arfinio®'s silky surface evokes spa-like sensations at your fingertips, transforming driving into a multi-sensory journey. Merging emotion with performance and sustainability, Arfinio® allows for easy in-vehicle repairs, ensuring your interior remains stylish and pristine for years to come.
More sustainable comfort starts here
With Desmopan® AIR TPU granules and an innovative extrusion-based process called Parallel-Layered Manufacturing, we are rethinking automotive comfort.
The effect:
Breathable, washable cushioning layers that support a more sustainable future by making car seats more recyclable by design.
Every journey welcomes you home.
From the very beginning, our goal was to create a forward-thinking, autonomous People Mover designed to shape the future of public transport. Throughout the development and design process, we placed particular emphasis on sustainability, human centric design and suitability for public transport. In close collaboration with Covestro and their unique expertise in integrated application, process, and product development, we were able to fully meet our strict material requirements across all three areas.
Alexander Uedelhoven
Founder and Project Lead SUE, UE Studios
SUE is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy.
Makrolon® partnership
In partnership with Exolon Group, our advanced Makrolon® materials are transformed into precision-engineered polycarbonate sheets that meet the demanding requirements of next-generation autonomous vehicles.
Innovation starts with collaboration
Listen to customer voices on the "SUE People Mover" and on the "Sonnenwagen".