Hexcel unveiled a suite of next-generation lightweight composite materials and circular economy initiatives for the automotive sector at JEC World 2026, held March 10-12 at Paris Nord Villepinte. Highlights included rapid-curing HexPly® M949 cosmetic prepreg containing 15% bio-based content for Class A carbon-look automotive parts, recycled carbon fiber prepregs, and a bonnet demonstrator combining recycled and virgin fibers to highlight both aesthetics and sustainability benefits. The company emphasized manufacturing collaborations and supply chain partnerships to advance composites circularity and lightweighting. Additional displays featured thermoset Towpreg for filament winding and HexShape® woven net-shape textiles, engineered for complex geometries, illustrating a multi-material strategy for diverse automotive applications.
Background
Hexcel, a global supplier of advanced composite technologies, has traditionally focused on aerospace and defense but is increasingly addressing automotive lightweighting and sustainability. The automotive industry's move toward electrification and emissions reduction has driven demand for composites that reduce weight without compromising surface quality or environmental performance. JEC World is a key platform where Hexcel and industry peers introduce innovations shaping automotive supply chains and manufacturing. The recent product introductions continue Hexcel's expansion into integrated, circular composite solutions, building on previous developments in aerospace rapid-cure prepregs and thermoplastic composites.
Details
HexPly® M949, developed with Novation using compression molding, offers rapid cure cycles compatible with high-volume production, along with a high-quality surface finish and 15% bio-based carbon content. It targets cosmetic exterior and interior automotive parts exposed to elevated temperatures. The recycled carbon fiber (rCF) prepreg range included a bonnet demonstrator using rCF backing plies combined with virgin carbon surfaces and a Class A painted finish, combining premium aesthetics with reduced landfill waste. Hexcel's thermoset Towpreg, intended for filament winding, provides fast processing and precise resin content suitable for high-performance electric motor components. HexShape® 3D net-shape preforms support complex geometries, reducing material waste and enhancing structural uniformity. Hexcel noted that collaboration with partners such as Novation, Duqueine, FACC, ATC, Arkema, RIMAC, and Flying Whales is essential for scalable production and advancing circular economy goals.
Outlook
Automakers are expected to evaluate Hexcel's materials for next-generation lightweight vehicles, particularly for applications prioritizing cosmetic quality and eco-design. The combination of fast-curing, bio-based, and recycled composites aims to support OEMs in achieving sustainable, high-performance solutions for series automotive production.
