by Peter Buttiens, CEO of ESMA,
When we think about automotive innovation, we often focus on electric drivetrains, AI-driven safety features, engines and advanced materials. But one critical manufacturing process often goes unnoticed-screen printing. Without it, essential automotive components would not function as they do today. From seat heating and windshield sensors to fuel cells and circuit protection, screen printing plays a vital role in vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency. As the automotive industry moves toward electrification, sustainability, and smarter mobility, screen printing is evolving to meet new demands.
At ESMA, we work closely with automotive manufacturers and printing experts to advance and refine these processes. That’s why SPI 2025 (June 3–5, Messe Essen) will showcase the latest breakthroughs—helping businesses stay ahead of automotive industry trends.
Let’s take a closer look at where screen printing is driving innovation and why SPI 2025 is the must-attend event for automotive manufacturers, engineers, and suppliers.
Screen Printing: The Unseen Force in Modern Vehicles
Screen printing is widely used in automotive manufacturing, ensuring that electronic, functional, and decorative components meet the industry’s strict performance standards.
Key applications in vehicles include:
- Sensors & Electronics: Printed circuits, antennas, seat occupancy sensors, and heating elements.
- Electric Vehicles: Peltier cooling for EV batteries, conductive coatings, and fuel cell components
- Dashboard & Interior Trim: Functional coatings for touch panels, control interfaces, and speedometers
- Decorative & Branding Elements: Logos, emblems, and high-end surface finishes
- Deep Dive: A recent Hanser Automotive article highlights the growing role of screen printing in automotive innovation, reinforcing its importance in next-generation vehicle designs. Read the full article here.
Cutting-Edge Automotive Screen Printing at SPI 2025
At SPI 2025, industry leaders will showcase specialized screen-printing technologies that push the boundaries of automotive production.
Proell: Advanced Coatings for Automotive Interiors
- Expertise in printing on plastics, glass & metals
- Film Insert Molding (IMD/FIM) solutions for durable dashboard displays
- Non-conductive black inks for automotive control panels
SPS TechnoScreen: Precision-Driven Screen Printing
- Flatbed & cylinder screen-printing systems with camera registration technology
- Eliminates material waste & setup time, ensuring perfect registration for every print
- Ideal for high-volume automotive production
Thieme: Fully Automated Screen Printing for Vehicle Components
- Automated systems for cylinder-head gaskets, windshields, speedometers & fuel cells
- Precision camera alignment for seamless production workflows
- Rapid servicing options to minimize downtime
🔗 Meet these exhibitors and many more at SPI 2025!
What to Expect at SPI 2025?
Messe Essen | 3–5 June 2025
SPI Innovation Theatre:
- Keynote sessions on automotive screen printing advancements
- Expert discussions on functional printing for EVs, smart surfaces & sustainability
Exhibitor Showcase:
- 50+ industry-leading companies presenting live demos & technical insights
- A global network of suppliers, manufacturers, and innovators
Join the Future of Automotive Screen Printing at SPI 2025!
The automotive industry is evolving, and screen printing is a key technology shaping its future. Don’t miss this chance to experience the latest innovations, gain practical insights, and connect with leading experts at SPI 2025.
Press & Media: Are you covering automotive innovation, manufacturing, or functional printing? Let’s discuss exclusive insights from SPI 2025 and set up interviews with industry experts.
About the author:
Peter Buttiens serves as the Chief Executive Officer of ESMA, the European Specialist Printing Manufacturers Association, headquartered in Tielt-Winge, Belgium. Under his leadership, ESMA has become a pivotal organization in the industrial printing sector, fostering knowledge exchange and innovation among its members. With over 16 years at the helm, Buttiens has emphasized the importance of integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices within the industry. He has highlighted the role of industrial printing in various applications, including printed electronics and biomedical devices, underscoring its evolution beyond traditional graphic printing. Buttiens advocates for the adoption of digital processes to enhance efficiency and sustainability in textile printing. He has discussed the significant water savings achievable through the transition from analogue to digital printing methods, aligning with broader environmental goals. Through his efforts, ESMA has strengthened its position as a knowledge hub, connecting industry stakeholders and promoting advancements in industrial printing technologies.
