The recent advancement in sustainable innovation has emerged in the form of the new CUP bucket seats of the Cupra Born VZ electric vehicle. These seats will now be reinforced with natural flax fiber, a significant departure from the carbon- and glass-fiber composites previously used in the seatbacks. This initiative, a collaboration between Cupra, Bcomp, and Sabelt, represents a significant step towards enhancing sustainability in the automotive industry while maintaining high performance standards.
The transition to natural flax fiber in the seatbacks is expected to result in a noteworthy 49% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the traditional carbon- and glass-fiber hybrid version. Bcomp’s ampliTex technical material, known for its sustainability benefits, also offers improved vibration damping and enhanced safety. This shift towards natural fiber not only aligns with environmental responsibility but also enhances the overall driving experience for the users.
One key aspect of this collaboration is the seamless integration of natural materials into the manufacturing process. Cupra and Bcomp have demonstrated a shared commitment to prioritising sustainability without compromising on performance. The swift transition to sustainable materials is a testament to their dedication and agility in promoting environmental responsibility.
The all-natural-fiber CUP bucket seats are exclusively available for the powerful electric Cupra Born VZ, which boasts remarkable performance capabilities. With 322 horsepower and a torque of 545 Newton-meters, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 200 km/h. This exceptional performance, combined with the comfort provided by the supportive bucket seats, offers an unparalleled driving experience.
Per Mårtensson, Chief Revenue Officer at Bcomp, commended the collaborative effort, highlighting the remarkable agility demonstrated in delivering a world’s first high-performance natural-fiber bucket seat within a short timeframe. This achievement challenges conventional automotive timelines, placing sustainability at the forefront. Francesca Sangalli, Head of Colour & Trim Concept & Strategy at Cupra, expressed satisfaction in successfully integrating flax fiber into the car seats, transforming the sporty aesthetics to incorporate a functional yet sustainable element in the vehicle’s interior.
This initiative represents a significant milestone in the automotive industry, showcasing the potential for sustainable materials to revolutionise performance and design. As the world continues to embrace eco-friendly solutions, the adoption of natural flax fiber in the production of high-performance electric cars sets a compelling precedent for the future of automotive sustainability.