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20 January 2026
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When it comes to vehicle performance, most drivers think about engines, brakes, or tyres—but few realise how vital polyurethane (PU) is to modern automotive design. From suspension precision to ride comfort and durability, polyurethane has become one of the most important materials in today’s cars.
At Polybush, we specialise in high-performance polyurethane suspension bushes, engineered to outperform traditional rubber alternatives. Here are 10 surprising facts about polyurethane—and why it’s the smart choice for your vehicle.
Polyurethane was originally developed during World War II as a replacement for scarce natural rubber. Today, it has evolved into a premium automotive material, widely used in suspension bushes, engine mounts, seals, and performance components.
Unlike rubber, polyurethane does not degrade as quickly, making it ideal for long-lasting suspension solutions like Polybush products.
Polyurethane foam transformed automotive seating in the 1950s, but solid polyurethane has done the same for vehicle handling. In suspension systems, PU bushes maintain geometry under load, ensuring better steering response, stability, and driver feedback—especially under hard driving or towing conditions.
Rubber bushes are prone to cracking, softening, and perishing when exposed to heat, oil, and road contaminants. Polyurethane, however, is highly resistant to chemicals, moisture, and extreme temperatures, making it perfect for demanding suspension applications.
That’s why Polybush suspension bushes last significantly longer than rubber equivalents.
Polyurethane can be moulded precisely, allowing manufacturers like Polybush to produce tight-tolerance suspension bushes that improve handling without compromising safety.
Used in:
Suspension bushes
Shock absorber mounts
Anti-roll bar bushes
Chassis and drivetrain components
PU delivers strength, flexibility, and consistency where rubber simply can’t compete.
One of polyurethane’s biggest advantages is tunability. Unlike rubber, polyurethane suspension bushes can be manufactured in multiple hardnesses (Shore ratings).
At Polybush, this means:
Softer compounds for road comfort
Medium hardness for fast road and towing
Harder compounds for motorsport, off-road, and performance use
This allows you to tailor your suspension exactly to your driving needs.
Polyurethane bushes reduce excessive flex found in worn rubber bushes, keeping suspension components correctly aligned. This leads to:
Reduced tyre wear
More predictable handling
Increased braking performance
Polybush products are engineered to minimise noise and vibration, offering a perfect balance between comfort and performance.
Beyond suspension, polyurethane is used in:
Tyres (as performance additives)
Engine and gearbox mounts
Seals and gaskets
Protective coatings
Its versatility makes PU one of the most widely used materials in automotive manufacturing.
As vehicles become lighter and more efficient, polyurethane is increasingly used in body panels, bumpers, and structural components. Its high strength-to-weight ratio helps reduce mass without sacrificing durability—benefiting both fuel economy and performance.
Polyurethane adhesives and sealants bond metal, plastic, and glass throughout modern vehicles. These strong yet flexible bonds improve structural integrity and crash safety while reducing unnecessary weight.
Polyurethane is now essential in electric vehicles, used for:
Battery pack protection
Thermal insulation
Vibration damping
As EVs evolve, polyurethane—and especially durable suspension components—will continue to play a vital role.
Replacing worn rubber bushes with Polybush polyurethane suspension bushes delivers immediate and long-term benefits:
Longer lifespan than rubber
Improved handling and steering precision
Resistance to oil, heat, and road grime
Multiple hardness options to suit your driving style
Designed and manufactured for performance and durability
Whether you drive a classic car, daily commuter, 4×4, or performance vehicle, Polybush polyurethane bushes provide a smarter, stronger, and more reliable upgrade.
Polyurethane might be your vehicle’s hidden performance advantage—and with Polybush, you’re choosing expertly engineered suspension solutions built to last.
Contact Polybush today to find the right polyurethane suspension bushes for your vehicle and experience the difference in performance, control, and longevity.
