You will never guess what the next BMWs will be made of

BMW goes green with the introduction of natural fibers in its mass-produced models, replacing carbon fiber.

The BMW Group has taken a decisive step in sustainable innovation. After several years of research, natural fiber composites, already tested in motorsport, are now ready to be integrated into the company’s production models.

Developed in collaboration with the Swiss company Bcomp, these composite materials are made from flax fibers. This solution combines lightness, mechanical performance, and a reduction in carbon footprint. BMW, which holds an investment in Bcomp through BMW i Ventures, sees these natural fibers as a serious alternative to carbon fiber reinforced composites (CFRP), which are much more energy-intensive to produce.

The change is significant. Replacing carbon with these fibers in the manufacturing of a model’s roof could lead to a 40% reduction in CO₂ emissions during production. Even better, these materials consider their end of life from design, further enhancing their environmental appeal.

Before being approved for series production, these components were put to the test on the tracks. Since 2019, BMW M Motorsport has used them in Formula E, and then on the M4 DTM and M4 GT4. This weekend, they faced an iconic challenge, the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, with notable success as an M4 GT3 emerged victorious! A final validation in tough conditions for materials that are both robust and sustainable.

For BMW, this technological breakthrough is not just an ecological choice but also a strategic one. By combining performance and environmental respect, the brand aims to meet regulatory requirements while appealing to an increasingly sustainability-conscious clientele.

While BMW M’s motto remains “Born on the racetrack. Made for the streets,” it now takes on a new meaning: the track as a laboratory for innovations poised to conquer the road.

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