Bcomp supplies biocomposites for BMW M Concept Neue Klasse
Bcomp has supplied its AmpliTex biocomposites for BMW's M Concept Neue Klasse. This development highlights the potential of biocomposites as an alternative to carbon fiber, offering advantages in weight, safety, and functionality.
Swiss materials specialist Bcomp Ltd has supplied performance composite components made from its AmpliTex technology for the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse. This collaboration with BMW Group highlights the industrialization of natural-fiber composites for exterior applications in high-performance vehicles.
The BMW M Concept Neue Klasse debuted at the Le Mans 24 Hours in early June. The partnership between Bcomp and BMW M was initially announced last year.
The vehicle features a visible fiber composite roof showcasing a bespoke weave and color developed with BMW M. AmpliTex is used for the roof, front splitter, hood air outlet, side skirts, mirror caps, and rear diffuser. Inside, AmpliTex serves as a structural element for the back of the four newly developed bucket seats. Bcomp’s natural fiber is also used in a refined form with M branding in the roof graphic.
AmpliTex offers a high stiffness-to-weight ratio, safer crash behavior compared to carbon fiber, exceptional vibration damping, and full radio transparency. It has been extensively used in motorsport, including Formula 1, Formula E, Super Formula, GT racing, motorcycle racing, and rally.
Unlike conventional composites, AmpliTex is woven from flax fibers, a renewable material that does not compete with food crops. It reduces cradle-to-gate CO2 emissions by up to 85% compared to carbon fiber.
At the end of their service life, parts can be disposed of via standard waste-to-energy power plants, capturing energy in an environmentally friendly process.
Christian Fischer, CEO of Bcomp, stated that natural fibers offer a unique alternative to carbon fiber composites. Supplying AmpliTex for the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse demonstrates the viability of sustainable composite technologies in high-performance automotive applications. Fischer anticipates future vehicles featuring Bcomp's natural fiber composite solutions.
Source: Carbon Fiber Feed