Bcomp specialises in the manufacture of high-tech bio-based materials and is now preparing to conquer the automotive industry. Its technologies, applied to both bodywork and interior parts, have already won over a number of major players in the field.
Context
Bcomp’s goal is to decarbonise its customers’ value chains with its high-performance bio-based material made from flax fibres. Resistant and lightweight, this material initially found use in the sports and leisure sectors, where it appealed especially to ski manufacturers. However, since 2022, the company has been targeting the mobility sector, through motor sport, with both exterior and interior components (such as dashboards and seat backs). Its technologies enable car manufacturers to design lighter, more sustainable interior panels, cutting weight by up to 50% and reducing plastic by up to 70%. Across all its markets, Bcomp’s technologies are expected to save thousands of tonnes of CO2.
Technology
The uniqueness of the composites developed by Bcomp lies in the optimal orientation of the flax fibres used in the manufacture of its high-tech reinforcement fabrics, supplied in rolls or sheets. The company is also making a name for itself with the superior functionality of its semi-finished products, which, depending on their intended use, meet various criteria such as UV or scratch resistance. Rather than simply supplying materials, Bcomp’s aim is to meet users’ precise needs for each application. And, in the case of visible parts, it can also adapt its products to its customers’ design requirements. For now, the resins used to bind the fibres are mainly made from petroleum derivatives. However, the company is aiming to move over to 100% natural resins to further reduce the carbon footprint of its composites. Another avenue for development is the use of recycled plastic. All materials are manufactured in Europe, some at Bcomp’s premises in Fribourg.
Maturity
Bcomp has been present in the sports and leisure sector for several years, in Europe, North America and Asia. In the mobility sector, its customers already include Volvo, Polestar and CUPRA for industrial applications. Nearly CHF 80 million have been raised since 2011, including CHF 36 million in a Series C round in 2024, which will enable the company to expand its markets and increase its production capacity.
‘After bringing numerous manufacturers in the sports and leisure sector onside, we are now focusing on the mobility sector to make an even bigger impact.’ – Christian Fischer, CEO of Bcomp
This portrait is taken from the second edition of the cleantech start-up overview published in 2024. Discover the full publication here.
Photo credits : © Volvo Cars > Inside the Volvo / © Bcomp > other pictures
