In a landmark move for sustainable mobility, BMW Group has confirmed that Swiss cleantech pioneer Bcomp's flax-based natural fibre composites will be integrated extensively into the exterior and interior components of future BMW production vehicles.
This milestone follows years of close collaboration between Bcomp and BMW Group, spanning motorsport prototyping, CO2 reduction research, and rigorous performance validation. By replacing conventional carbon fibre parts with Bcomp's ampliTex and powerRibs composites, BMW achieves up to 40% lower CO2 emissions in production. For example, the roof structure of the next-generation BMW M3 will incorporate these lightweight natural fibres, reflecting BMW M's ethos: Born on the racetrack. Made for the streets.
Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH, said natural fibre composites are a vital element of innovative lightweight solutions in motorsport, allowing for a reduction in CO2e emissions in the manufacturing process, and expressed delight in confirming the series maturity of these materials.
From Racing Innovation to Road Readiness
The journey began in 2019 when Bcomp materials debuted in Formula E, followed by extensive integration in the BMW M4 GT4. Strategic investment by BMW i Ventures in Bcomp's Series B (2022) and Series C (2024) rounds further accelerated scaling these solutions to industrial volume.
Unique Materials and Scalable Production
BMW and Bcomp jointly developed a custom natural fibre weave and colour, meeting demanding homologation standards for structural parts. Production will rely on automated RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding) for exterior components like roofs, while interior parts will use prepreg autoclave processing, ensuring exceptional stiffness and finish quality.
Johann Wacht of Bcomp said using these natural fibre-based materials on exterior parts of series road cars did seem impossible to many, but through passionate collaboration, they achieved the unthinkable.
Source: www.bcomp.com
