BMW is replacing carbon fiber with natural fiber materials in its upcoming electric M3, citing sustainability and recyclability. The M Neue Klasse Concept, shown at Le Mans, uses natural fiber that BMW claims matches carbon fiber in lightweight and strength but is fully recyclable. This move prepares BMW for potential EU regulations banning non-recyclable car materials, which were proposed for 2029 but faced pushback from automakers. BMW has been developing natural fiber composites for years, and the electric M3 may be the first production model to use them. The company is also increasing use of recycled aluminum in models like the iX3, i3, and 7 Series. This shift reflects broader automotive industry trends toward circular materials and lower lifecycle emissions, even in high-performance vehicles.
