Car brands show Alcantara carbon-neutral interiors at IAA

Audi presented its updated A8, at the Frankfurt show.  The flagship of the Audi lineup, the A8 is characterized by hand-built quality, systematic lightweight construction and an abundance of high-end technologies.  Lightweight Alcantara materials were chosen for the A8's pillars and headliners.  Alcantara also is used on pillars and headliners for two other Audi world premieres in Frankfurt - - the Nanuk Quattro Concept and the new Sport Quattro.

BMW introduced the new X5 and a concept X5 eDrive.  The BMW X5 was the world's first Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).  With the launch of the third-generation X5 even more focus is on luxury and innovation. The seats display a special "hexagon" pattern in Alcantara.  The laser-cut material shines through a metal backing, a special tailor-made solution specifically created for the German brand.

The Ferrari 458 Speciale introduced in Frankfurt features a "sporty attitude" in structure, mechanics and design. Inspired by the racing world's emphasis on lightweight materials, the cockpit of Ferrari's new vehicle features a combination of Alcantara and carbon-fiber materials, including charcoal-gray Alcantara with contrasting red stitching that covers the dashboard, pillars and shoulder-rests.

The Ford S-Max Concept makes its debut at the IAA with an interior that features Alcantara in an original champagne color.  Almost the entire Ford S-Max's interior is dressed in Alcantara from the headliner and pillars to door panels, as well as the vehicle's futuristic seats.

Porsche is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 911 with a model inspired by the original limited-edition 1963 design, as well as a new generation 911 Turbo and Turbo S. All of these models feature Alcantara on the pillars and headliners, adding a contemporary touch to the classic design.

Volkswagen is introducing the new Golf R at Frankfurt after having introduced four previous models earlier this year - - the GTI, GTD, Variant and TDI BlueMotion. The Golf R's high-end interior has sporty seating in a combination of fabric and Alcantara.

About Alcantara

Founded in 1972, Alcantara S.p.A. represents a prime example of Italian-produced quality. The company's head offices are in Milan, while its production plant and research centers are located in Nera Montoro, Umbria. Alcantara is a highly innovative cover material, the result of a unique, proprietary technology.  It is the preferred choice of leading companies in a wide array of fields, including automotive, marine, fashion, interior design and consumer electronics.

Alcantara