Swiss composites manufacturer Bcomp supplied Kia with a sustainable natural-fiber composite material called Amplitex, for key interior components of the new Kia Concept EV2.
The Concept EV2, unveiled at Kia’s recent EV day in Barcelona, is intended to demonstrate the potential for large-scale adoption of bio-based composites in affordable EVs, paving the way for wider integration into production vehicles.
By replacing conventional synthetic materials with Amplitex, the Concept EV2 prioritizes responsible design choices without compromising on performance or aesthetics. Delivering circularity by nature, Bcomp’s solutions also offer end-of-life benefits, including recycling the components into composite pellets – a new base material – to serve a second life.
Amplitex is derived from flax fibers. Its properties enhance sustainability and provide performance and functional gains, such lower mass and better durability.
Bcomp worked closely with the CMF designers at the Kia Europe Design Center to develop a custom dark blue finish. The Kia team used Amplitex in the back seat shell and front seat substructures of the Concept EV2. It brings bio-based materials to the mass market, offering an alternative to plastic and carbon fiber.
Bcomp Sales Manager Nicolas Samson calls his company’s supply of Amplitex for the Concept EV2 “another step toward the mainstream adoption of natural-fiber composites in automotive interiors; Kia’s forward-thinking approach to mobility aligns perfectly with our mission to push the boundaries of sustainable interior solutions, and together we’re proving that sustainable, circular materials can enhance both vehicle aesthetics and functionality at scale”.
And Kia Europe Design Center Senior CMF Designer Nathalie Bucher says, “Bcomp’s industry-leading expertise in bio-based composites has allowed us to redefine what’s possible in automotive interiors with the Concept EV2 and bring innovative materials to the mass market. Their dedication to working closely with our design team ensures that every material aligns perfectly with our vision, reinforcing our commitment to creating stylish, environmentally aware and high-quality vehicles for the future”.
