Alcantara Adds Sporty Appeal To Two New BMW Models

MILAN--Oct. 4, 2012:  BMW has chosen luxury material from Milan-based Alcantara to upholster the seats of its new 1 Series three-door and 3 Series Touring models scheduled to arrive in European showrooms this fall.

Offered in BMW "Anthracite" dark grey, the Alcantara material is breathable and adds a refined touch to the Bavarian car maker's ultra-sporty seats.  Both BMW models are being shown this month at the Paris auto show - Mondial de L'Automobile.

"Breathability is an important comfort feature in any season and the unique 'grip' provided by our material is valued by performance car owners," noted Andrea Boragno, Alcantara's chairman and CEO. "A 100 percent Italian-made material, AlcantaraŽ has been featured on prestigious brands at major auto shows throughout the world in 2012.

"Our materials are certified 100 percent carbon neutral, which adds to their appeal for companies and consumers with a concern for the environment. Alcantara creates interiors with guaranteed durability combined with taste and elegance."

Alcantara materials are featured in the interiors of other BMW models including series 1, 3, 6, 7, X1, X5, X6 and Z4

AlcantaraŽ, the material, is a registered trademark of Alcantara S.p.A. The result of proprietary technology, it is the choice of leading companies in automotive, marine, fashion, home-interior and consumer-electronics industries. Founded in 1972, the company is headquartered in Milan with research and production facilities in Nera Montoro, Umbria.

More information about Alcantara S.p.A. is available on the Internet at Alcantara.