The Biofore concept car, a joint production by UPM and Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, is to premiere at the 84th Geneva International Motor Show, March 6-16, 2014. The concept car is designed to be a futuristic, street-legal vehicle which demonstrates the use of renewable biomaterials in the automotive industry.   

Various parts of the concept car will be made from UPM’s biobased materials – the UPM Formi biocomposite and UPM Grada thermoformable wood material. These materials will significantly improve the overall environmental performance of the car, without compromising quality or safety. The concept car will also be fuelled by UPM BioVerno wood-based renewable diesel. UPM Raflatac label materials will be used to mark spare parts as well as in the interior and exterior design of the car.

Exhibiting at a world-class industry event will draw international attention to the concept car, the students and other partners involved in the building process. “From the very beginning we have aimed to showcase the car in Geneva. In fact, we have phased the project accordingly. The car has recently been painted and we are proceeding well with the interior,” stated Pekka Hautala, Technology Manager from Metropolia.

“Sustainable innovations, close cooperation with future professionals and renewing with courage, have made the concept car a fine manifestation of our Biofore thinking. We are delighted that the highlight of this cooperation will take place at one of the automotive industry’s most esteemed events,” says Elisa Nilsson, Vice President of brand and communications at UPM.     

In addition to UPM and Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, several other partner companies and the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation are involved in the Biofore concept car project.