Bcomp ampliTex makes appearance in Cupra EV Cup Bucket seats

Cupra (Barcelona, Spain), a subsidiary of Spanish car manufacturer SEAT, which is part of Volkswagen Group, has announced the use of Bcomp’s (Fribourg, Switzerland) natural fiber composite materials for the new Cup Bucket seats in the Cupra Born VZ electric vehicles (EVs), the latest addition to the brand’s vehicle line-up.

Cupra focuses on innovation and sustainability in an effort to redefine the automotive industry. This approach is exemplified by the Cupra Born VZ, which combines high performance with eco-friendly design, aiming to inspire a new generation of drivers with its progressive and responsible engineering.

According to Francesca Sangalli, head of color and trim concept and strategy at Cupra, “We’ve been researching the use of flax fiber for some time to integrate it in our car seats. We are changing the sporty aesthetics to incorporate a functional part made of flax fiber in the interior of a car.”

For the car’s interior design, Cupra’s collaboration with Bcomp and Sabelt, known for its high-performance automotive seats, has resulted in the creation of natural fiber Cup Bucket seats. Replacing the original seat backs made from carbon and glass fiber, the Cup Bucket option incorporates ampliTex fibers, which is reported to reduce CO₂ emissions by 49% compared to the hybrid version, in addition to offering end-of-life options. Enhanced vibration damping and increased safety are additional benefits. The ampliTex natural fibers provide both a structural layer and a visual surface that introduces an elegant natural appearance and high level of comfort, according to Cupra.

The all-natural fiber Cup Bucket seats are available exclusively to the Cupra Born VZ EV. The vehicle delivers 322 horsepower and an instant torque of 545 newton-meters, enabling it to accelerate from zero to 100 kilometers/hour in just 5.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 200 kilometers/hour.

“Everyone involved from Cupra, Sabelt and Bcomp showcased agility to deliver a world’s first series high-performance natural fiber bucket seat within an extremely short timeframe, challenging standard automotive go-to-market timelines in favor of sustainability,” Per Mårtensson, chief revenue officer at Bcomp, says.