Faurecia interior systems for BMW X6

Interior systems supplier Faurecia has contributed to the interior of the BMW X6 that premiered at this year's Geneva Motor Show

The BMW X6, which was recently introduced at Geneva, blends the qualities and design keys of other BMW coupe models with the sporty lines of the X-line vehicle range. Faurecia, Europe's second largest equipment supplier, has provided this BMW with its considerable expertise in "premium" interiors for the production of the front seats, instrument panel, centre console and door panels. Designed to form a perfect alliance of comfort and driving pleasure, the BMW X6 features an interior that is functional, elegant and refined in an atmosphere that is at once sporty and luxurious. The attention to detail in the vehicle interior, with its quality materials and harmonious design, provides a luxurious driving experience fit for the most discerning drivers.

The premium (complete front) seats Faurecia supplies to the X6 are produced at the group's Fountain Inn plant in South Carolina. They are equipped in series with powered settings that enable occupants to adjust the seat height and seat-back angle. Among the different options available, the 20-way seat that offers backrest contour adjustments, active warming or cooling ventilation and massage functions. The 10-way sport model includes manual adjustment for the thighs and a driver-side memory function. Up to nine motors power these ultra-functional seats, which are offered in various high-end leather or fabric options including a new Alcantara/leather seat trim developed exclusively for the BMW X6. To protect occupants from neck injuries in the case of a rear-end collision, the front seats of the BMW X6 feature active head restraints as standard.

A robust and practical design, the instrument panel has been designed to provide maximum user comfort, while at the same time optimizing weight. The glass fibre reinforced polypropylene material used for the structure provides an instrument panel that is both lightweight and robust. Particular care has also gone into the storage facilities. These include a double-opening glove compartment, situated high on the instrument panel, comprising a highly innovative power-operated magnetic opening and closing system. Locking automatically with the doors, the glove compartment does not require a separate lock, the two-piece lid opening upwards and downwards to provide convenient access to the fully-illuminated storage space inside. Its discrete design blends effortlessly with the surrounding surfaces. The centre console, with its cunningly-placed kneepads and spacious storage compartments, is an extra element of comfort in the vehicle interior. The storage area opens and closes in the same way as the glove compartment by means of a so called butterfly lid. Further features include the two extra-large cupholders complete with a lid on top that can even hold bottles firmly in position.

The Faurecia door panels complete the interior harmony of the new BMW X6 thanks to the extremely high level of perceived quality. They are based on a structural framework made of injected styrene plastic, which provides excellent dimensional stability, and the spacious pockets in the front and rear doors round off the wide range of storage facilities.

Faurecia has built-up considerable experience with the German automaker in North America from its Fountain Inn (South Carolina) plant, which is located close to BMW's Spartanburg facility. This plant already supplies parts for the BMW X5. With the start of production of the BMW X6 in late 2007, the Group continues to develop this long-standing relationship.