The latest generation Mini family of cars makes extensive use of recycled knitted fabrics in their interiors, reflecting a ‘less is more’ approach to design.

The knitted materials consist of 92% recycled polyester and are used for dashboard upholstery, door trims and the centre console lid, significantly reducing CO2e emissions and water consumption in production compared to primary materials.     

The specially developed knitted look gives the interior of the Mini family a distinctive look and opens up new possibilities for individual colours and patterns. It enables two-colour designs with an impressive depth effect which occurs when the colour of the lower textile layer subtly shines through the upper layer. This structure, inspired by sports shoe designs and carefully further developed, gives the surfaces visual complexity and ensures a high-quality, unique look in the interior. The components are also abrasion-resistant, structurally reinforced and completely leather-free. 

These materials have now been extended to the BMW iX3 with the ‘Contemporary’ trim of the first Neue Klasse model featuring an instrument panel made of a 75% recycled knitted fabric. While the light in the Mini family is projected onto the dashboard, the lighting in the BMW iX3 comes from the rear and as a consequence the knitted pattern has been deliberately designed to be more translucent to allow the new backlighting to fully come into its own.    

The textile solution for the Mini interior was made ready for series production in close collaboration with internal and external partners.

www.bmwgroup.com