On June 12, Swiss sustainable lightweighting company Bcomp announced the application of its natural fiber composite technology AmpliTex™ in the new Volvo EX30.
This landmark project will see Bcomp's linen fiber composite used as an optional trim for the EX30 dashboard and doors. The partnership follows Volvo Car Technology Fund's Series B investment in Bcomp last year.
While Bcomp's natural fiber composites are well proven in demanding motorsport applications such as Formula 1, Formula Electric and Super Formula, this is the first production car for consumers.
Bcomp previously worked with Volvo Cars in 2018 on a recycled plastic demo car for the Volvo Ocean Race.
This is followed by the Concept Charge 2021, which shows the future direction of Volvo Cars in terms of all-electric vehicle development.
It includes extensive use of Bcomp composites on the interior and exterior, from storage areas to bumpers and door sills.
ampliTex™ is a technically enhanced fabric made from renewable, European-grown linen fibers. It combines sustainability, low weight and unique design opportunities.
It also supports Volvo Cars' sustainability strategy, which includes the goal of selling only all-electric vehicles by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2040.
The Volvo EX30 with Bcomp's AmpliTex™ technology is available on June 7, 2023.
The application of plant fiber reinforced composites in the automotive field is mainly focused on the interior and exterior structure, such as door panels, dashboards, seats, carpets, bumpers, etc. Some OEMs have already used plant fiber composite products, such as
- The door panels of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series;
- Ford Focus Electric's luggage load-bearing base plate;
- Body parts for the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport;
- Spare wheel grease covers and car mats for Toyota Raum;
- The center console and interior panels of the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid;
- Roof section of Honda FCX Clarity
