All-New 2014 Jeep Cherokee Uses Soy Body Sealer

The 2014 model-year Jeep Cherokee is all new, inside and out, including the BETAFOAM Renue soy-based body sealer developed with and supplied by Dow Automotive Systems. BEATAFOAM Renue reduces each vehicle’s body weight up to 1.5 pounds, contributing to improved fuel economy, better handling, a tranquil driving experience, and sustainability.

The Toledo Assembly Complex, home to the all-new Jeep Cherokee, features applicators that inject the acoustic foam into 10 locations of the vehicle’s body structure, including the A- and B-pillars and rear wheelwells.

Additionally, the BETAFOAM renue has a six-month shelf life, two times longer than the commonly used petroleum foam, resulting in less foam and cost-savings while still achieving the desired performance. Because of its lower viscosity, it is also easier to work with on the assembly line compared to conventional acoustic material.

The new foam was first used early this year at Chrysler Group’s Sterling Heights Assembly plant, home to the 2013 Chrysler 200 and Dodge Avenger mid-size sedans. Existing equipment was adapted to accommodate the injection process there, whereas the Toledo site features all-new equipment.