AOC UV Resistant Automotive System
THE FUTURE OF DURABLE PICKUP TRUCK BEDS
Summary
In the modern automotive landscape, truck owners demand a delicate balance of durability, functionality, and aesthetics, particularly when it comes to truck bed performance. Truck beds are essential to the utility of these vehicles, expected to withstand the rigors of hauling and storing various items without succumbing to scratches, dents, or the damaging effects of outdoor elements. However, the search for a product that delivers on all fronts has been a persistent challenge for both manufacturers and owners. This challenge is increasingly evident in the rapidly growing market, with 2.2 million full-size trucks sold in the United States in 2023, marking a 9% increase over 2022. The rising demand for aftermarket solutions like spray-in and drop-in liners—paired with the frequent discussions in truck owner forums—highlights the ongoing struggle to find a truly satisfactory solution.
Recognizing this gap in the market, the scientists at AOC have dedicated themselves to developing a solution that not only meets but exceeds expectations for both performance and manufacturing efficiency. The result of their efforts is the AOC UV Resistant Automotive System, a groundbreaking formulation that represents the next evolution in durable and aesthetically pleasing truck beds.
Current Market Solutions
Over the years, Pickup Truck OEMs and owners have explored various materials and techniques in an attempt to address the common issues of rust, dents, scratches, and fading in truck beds. Despite these efforts, existing solutions continue to fall short in one or more key areas:
1. NO BED LINER:
• While the shiny new paint is attractive when the buyer rolls off the lot, even light use and exposure can soon result in scuffs and scratches, as well as rust. This not only reduces the value of the vehicle, but over time, the performance as well.
2. AF TERMARKET SOLUTIONS:
To tackle the issues with painted beds many consumers utilize aftermarket bedliner solutions, creating a $350M industry in the US. Although aftermarket solutions can be cost-effective—up to $1,000— many require replacement throughout the truck’s lifespan.
• Spray-on bedliners:
+ This solution is better than no protection, but the technique requires precision. A liner must be sprayed to exactly the right thickness, as it’s easy to dent or gouge a thinly sprayed liner. Even those applied correctly can fade over time when exposed to the sun.
• Drop-in bedliners:
+ This is a quick but not long-term solution. The plastic can warp and crack, meaning it will need to be replaced throughout the life of the truck. Also, debris and moisture can sometimes become trapped underneath the liner, which leads to warping and rusting of the truck bed.
3. C OMPOSITE TRUCK BEDS:
• Factory-installed composite truck beds represent a significant advancement for many truck owners. Composites, with their lower density, contribute to further weight reductions versus aluminum & steel, thereby generating enhanced fuel efficiency. These materials are also resistant to corrosion and impacts, thanks to materials like fillers, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. Despite these advantages, composite truck beds are not without potential drawbacks. Some require additional production steps, such as painting, while others have yet to demonstrate long-term UV stability. Issues like fading, blistering, and the appearance of white scratches are common complaints on online truck owner forums and other websites like Reddit.
Despite these advancements, the industry still faces challenges. This prompted AOC to ask a critical question: Is there a better solution?
The AOC Solution
At the heart of the AOC UV Resistant Automotive System lies unmatched technical expertise and a deep understanding of both the manufacturing process and enduser needs. AOC’s team of scientists leveraged their extensive experience in chemistry and SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) formulations to address the key challenges in truck bed performance. Their mission was twofold:
• Manufacturing Performance: Ensure the formulation performs optimally during compounding and molding processes, enhancing stability and yield for manufacturers.
• End-User Satisfaction: Deliver a final product that meets truck owners’ expectations for durability, UV stability, and aesthetics over time.