BMW i Ventures invests in high-performance composites made from natural fibers

Bcomp's natural reinforced parts were first used by the BMW M Motorsport team in Formula E in 2019.

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BMW Group continues to innovate and is investing in the sustainable manufacture of components made from natural materials. THE BMW i Ventures, the group's venture capital firm, acquired bcomp, a leading Swiss manufacturer of high-performance parts made from natural fibers.

Bcomp's reinforced and natural parts were first used by the team BMW M Motorsport at Formula E in 2019. Then it was the turn of the touring cars of DTM replace plastic resin reinforced carbon fiber components (CFRP) by pieces of natural fibers.

Inspired by leaf ribs, parts developed by Bcomp maximize rigidity with minimal weight. This allows a decrease in the amount of base material used, thus reducing weight, costs and consumption in production. In addition to the piece, an additional reinforcement layer, made of linen fibers, gives the piece a refined finish.

The combination of the two materials makes it possible to reduce the amount of plastic used in interior panels by up to 70% and, at the same time, reduce CO2 emissions by up to 60%. The result is more sustainable components, but without losing strength. Natural fiber compounds can also be used as accessories, such as those in the BMW M Performance Parts.

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