"Volvo Approves AWX® Waterborne"

August 2008

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS AUTOMOTIVE FINISHES RECEIVES AWX® WATERBORNE PAINT SYSTEM GLOBAL TECHNICAL APPROVAL FROM VOLVO CAR CORPORATION  

Approval Expands Sherwin-Williams Reach in Europe, Asia and Other Worldwide Markets

 

Warrensville Heights, Ohio – The Volvo Car Corporation has announced Global Technical and Commercial approval of Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes Corp.’s (SWAFC) AWX® waterborne refinish system for use in all certified Volvo collision repair facilities around the world.

AWX is now listed in Volvo Car’s new VIDA (Vehicle Information and Diagnostics for Aftermarket) system, as does previously approved SWAFC’s ULTRA 7000® Basecoat/Clearcoat System.  The additional AWX certification is the result of extensive technical evaluation and rigorous product testing consistent by Volvo to assure the same high quality materials and aftermarket support as their line production.

SWAFC recently introduced AWX, an innovative waterborne basecoat/clearcoat system that utilizes a proprietary resin system that behaves like the solvent borne systems of today. Providing compliance without complications, AWX is designed to meet the strict VOC-emissions limits being adopted in parts of North America and Europe. 

 

SWAFC RECEIVES AWX® WATERBORNE PAINT SYSTEM GLOBAL TECHNICAL APPROVAL FROM VOLVO CAR CORPORATION

"Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, launched our Certified Body & Paint Service Center Program in 2003. We have now introduced our VIDA system with the goal that all Volvo Retailers should offer their customers the highest standards of body and paint repair service through their own collision repair facilities or authorized shops,” says Peter Larson, Volvo Cars Senior Manager, Deputy Director. “After stringent testing and selection, the Sherwin-Williams AWX waterborne system, along with its ULTRA 7000 Basecoat/Clearcoat system, is now one of the select few Volvo Approved Paint systems to be aftermarket certified.”

“Volvo Cars is justifiably proud of its innovation, safety and environmentally responsible automotive developments like advanced air bags and SIPS side impact protection,” says Craig Williams, SWAFC Director – OEM, Global Marketing, and Service.  “Sherwin-Williams is a market leader in environmentally and user-friendly products such as the AWX waterborne system. That said, we also share that same commitment to quality as Volvo Cars and feel this approval demonstrates its confidence in our refinish materials, global reach and support.”

With conversion taking place, SWAFC is committed to providing a waterborne solution with a conscience.  Unlike solvent borne basecoats of the past, AWX ensures up to a 96 percent reduction in VOC emissions while reducing hazardous waste generation. Yet because AWX has solvent borne-like application properties, it ensures a seamless transition and conversion.  Technicians will be familiar and comfortable with the process already, requiring minimal training and start-up costs.

For more information on the premium AWX waterborne refinish system or other Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes products, visit the company’s Web site, www.sherwin-automotive.com, or call 1-800-SWULTRA (1-800-798-5872).