Latest news with #carbonfiber
Forbes
4 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Superfeet Readies Carbon-Plated Insoles For Running And Cleated Sports
Superfeet will debut the Run Pacer Elite fully carbon fiber insole plate for running in October. As Superfeet nears 50 years making insoles, the Pacific Northwest brand did more than redesign a logo and packaging. Superfeet now readies a fresh approach to carbon fiber that can help turn the most comfortable and durable running shoe into carbon fiber-plated footwear. And that's just the start, with plans for a carbon-fiber model for cleated footwear coming next. 'Back in 2013 we pioneered the use of a hybrid polymer of plastic and carbon fiber blended together,' Matt Gooch, Superfeet vice president of product and innovation, tells me. 'Since that time, we have utilized it a lot in our product line, but we have never had a full 100% carbon fiber component.' That changes in October with the launch of the Run Pacer Elite insole, a full-length carbon fiber plate created in partnership with Carbitex that includes layers of super critical foam. Gooch says the carbon allows for incredible flexibility in one direction and then extreme stiffness in the other that changes based on the amount of pressure placed on the product. At slower speeds, the insole offers dynamic stability in the propulsive phase and as forces get higher—as speeds get faster—the unique properties allow the plate to engage sooner and get stiffer for a longer portion of the gate cycle. Basically, the harder you work the carbon fiber, the longer it provides propulsive benefits, Gooch says. Superfeet has nearly 50 years of insole history. Superfeet has paired the carbon fiber with the brand's SuperRev high energy return foam, with layers of foam beads and a foam bed. The combination gives runners improvement in stability, up to 40% better forefoot stability based on testing, Gooch says. The foam also allows the insole to retain the classic Superfeet shape and provide a responsive feel longer in the motion. Gooch says that a carbon fiber insole gives runners more flexibility in their training. It can allow them to add the insole to a training shoe that might fit them better, be more comfortable and more durable, still dialing up high-performance experiences. For someone with a shoe rotation, Gooch says they can tune that experience further with a carbon fiber insole by making long runs feel snappier or adding pop to a tempo or workout shoe. For someone who a carbon-plated shoe isn't an option, adding the insole will provide the benefits longer because the insole can be moved from shoe to shoe. 'We are trying to create this space where more people can hybridize and control the experience they want from their footwear when training,' Gooch says. 'This empowers them to stay moving and stay training.' As more running shoes enter the market with carbon fiber part of the equation, Gooch says getting the technology as close to the foot provides the most benefit. An insole is as close as you can get and with a plate that isn't at a set curvature, offers more personalization than many other products. Superfeet will debut a new Sport Ultralight lineup of insoles in early fall. 'What is unique is the combination of the things we are putting together,' Gooch says. 'The combination of materials and the build that we have with the Carbitex plate delvers something very interesting and unique.' One challenge was creating a product that wasn't duplicative of the brand's already large portfolio of running insoles. Gooch says they worked to amplify performance while refining the brand's position in the space. 'This doesn't feel or perform like any other product,' he says. 'It still has the Superfeet shape, it is incredibly durable and we deliver on those expectations, but it is going to feel different. I think that is something we are really excited about.' The Run Pacer Elite has a running-specifc design with contours through the arch, a cut-away for heel strike and a design that allows the big toe to do the heavy lifting of stability. With such a focus on running for the first carbon fiber product, the Cleat Insole adds to the lineup in early 2026. And it looks quite different. Designed with sports such as soccer in mind, Superfeet took a minimalist approach because of the style of footwear. The carbon fiber plate had to accommodate the pivot points and flexibility needed in the foot while still allowing the wear contact with the individual cleats. It made for a completely unique plate design. 'There are probably a lot of people who could benefit from these insoles who never thought of wearing insoles in the past,' Gooch says. 'We had to think: 'How do we give them a really compelling reason?'' The Cleat Insole is narrow to fit inside cleats, has a cutout on the heel to not add heel height, doesn't feature a uniform stiffness—as the angle increases it gets progressively stiffer—to fit with the needs of cleated sports and has overlays in high friction areas to keep the foot connected. The insole also features SuperRev foam. As Superfeet starts exploring the fully carbon, specifically sport world of insoles, Gooch says the Run Pacer Elite will serve as the jumping off point. 'We are really excited,' he says, 'about our continued evolution of what Superfeet has been doing. We can take the footwear you already trust and find ways to amplify the performance in ways that haven't been available from an insole.'
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Carbon Fiber Market Size Worth $7.46 billion by 2031
The carbon fiber market is rapidly expanding, driven by its unique properties like high strength, lightweight, and durability, making it ideal for applications across industries such as automotive, aerospace, sports, and construction. As manufacturers seek to reduce weight and increase performance in vehicles and aircraft, carbon fiber has become a material of choice for enhancing fuel efficiency and structural integrity. US & Canada, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a new comprehensive report from The Insight Partners, the global carbon fiber market is observing significant growth owing to the growing demand for lightweight materials in the aerospace and defense industry. The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. In general, the carbon fiber market comprises a vast array of applications that are expected to register growth during the coming years. To explore the valuable insights in the Carbon Fiber Market report, you can easily download a sample PDF of the report - Overview of Report Findings 1. Market Growth: The increasing need for lightweight materials to construct aviation components and parts has significantly boosted the demand for advanced composites. Aircraft manufacturers are making efforts to develop huge primary thermoplastic structures in business jets and commercial aircraft. The use of carbon fiber materials allows manufacturers to lower the weight of airplane parts, subsequently facilitating fuel cost reductions. Thus, the growing demand for lightweight materials in the aerospace & defense industry is driving the carbon fiber market growth. 2. Rising Use of Carbon Fiber in Automotive Industries: Lightweight materials offer excellent potential for increasing vehicle efficiency, as their acceleration requires less energy than heavier ones. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, a 10% decrease in vehicle weight can improve fuel economy by 6–8%. Substituting cast iron and traditional steel components with lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber and polymer composites, can reduce the weight of a vehicle body and chassis by up to 50%, thereby reducing the fuel consumption of a vehicle. Hence, the application of carbon fiber in the automotive sector is growing at a significant pace. 3. High Demand for Green Carbon Fiber: Green carbon fiber provides environmental sustainability, cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and lightweight benefits. Thus, green carbon fibers are tremendously used in battery boxes, lift gate systems, pressure vessels, wind turbines, aircraft, sporting goods, etc. The increased demand for lightweight materials in defense, automotive, sporting goods, and aerospace industries further drives the green carbon fiber market growth. Furthermore, the demand for environmentally friendly, easily recyclable fiber and fiber-reinforced composite products is growing due to strict government rules and regulations, propelling the adoption of green carbon fiber. 4. Geographical Insights: In 2023, Asia Pacific led the market with a substantial revenue share, followed by Europe and North America. Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. For Detailed Carbon Fiber Market Insights, Visit: Market Segmentation Based on raw material, the carbon fiber market is segmented into polyacrylonitrile-based and pitch-based. The polyacrylonitrile-based segment held a larger share of the carbon fiber market in 2024. By fiber type, the carbon fiber market is segmented into virgin and recycled. The virgin segment held a larger share of the carbon fiber market in 2024. By application, the carbon fiber market is segmented into composites and non-composites. The composites segment held a larger share of the carbon fiber market in 2024. By end-use industry, the carbon fiber market is segmented into aerospace and defense, automotive, building and construction, sporting goods, wind energy, textiles, marine, and others. The automotive segment held the largest share of the carbon fiber market in 2024. The carbon fiber market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South and Central America. Competitive Strategy and Development Key Players: Major companies operating in the carbon fiber market include DowAksa; Formosa M Co. Ltd.; Hexcel Corporation; Hyosung Advanced Materials; KUREHA CORPORATION; Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation; SGL Carbon; Shanghai Horse Construction Co., Ltd; TEIJIN LIMITED; and TORAY INDUSTRIES INC.. Trending Topics: A high focus on carbon fiber recycling and the growing adoption of carbon fiber in the energy sector Stay Updated on The Latest Carbon Fiber Market Trends: Global Headlines on Carbon Fiber Hyosung Advanced Materials developed ultra-high-tensile carbon fiber. Teijin unveiled Advanced Spread-Tow Carbon Fiber Woven Fabric. Teijin launched a new Carbon Fiber Intermediate Material Brand. Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation had commenced sales of a rapid cure carbon fiber (CF) prepreg. Teijin partnered with Fuji Design in carbon fiber recycling. SGL Carbon and Solvay collaborated to develop highly competitive advanced carbon fiber composites for aerospace primary structures. Purchase Premium Copy of Global Carbon Fiber Market Size and Growth Report (2021-2031) at: Conclusion Carbon fiber is defined as a long, thin strand of material that is made up of carbon atoms and has a diameter of about 0.005 mm to 0.010 mm. Such fibers provide high tensile strength, along with high-temperature tolerance and durability. Carbon fibers possess excellent corrosion resistance, higher stiffness and strength, and longer lifespans than other materials such as aluminum and steel. Hence, these fibers find their application in broad end-use industries. They are used in several applications, such as aerospace & defense, automotive, and construction. However, the high costs of carbon fiber manufacturing processes are limiting the market growth. Further, the increasing adoption of carbon fiber by sporting goods manufacturers across developed and developing countries worldwide is expected to provide lucrative growth opportunities for the carbon fiber market over the forecast period. The report from The Insight Partners, therefore, provides several stakeholders—including raw material suppliers, manufacturers, distributors/suppliers, and others—with valuable insights into how to successfully navigate this evolving market landscape and unlock new opportunities. Talk to Us Directly: Trending Related Reports: About Us: The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials. Contact Us: If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us: Contact Person: Ankit Mathur E-mail: Phone: +1-646-491-9876 Home - in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Car and Driver
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
View Interior Photos of the 2025 Porsche Taycan Turbo GT
These fixed-back carbon-fiber bucket seats come with the Weissach option in Europe. But they don't meet U.S. unbelted-occupant crash requirements, so we won't get them here.
Motor 1
14-05-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
The De Tomaso P72 Is Finally Here. And It's Stunning
The revived De Tomaso brand burst onto the scene in 2019 with its beautiful P72 prototype. But in the six years since, we hadn't heard much from the Italian automaker as to when the production version would finally hit the road. Today, that changes. De Tomaso is revealing its first road-going P72 and promising deliveries later this year. And much like the prototype, De Tomaso's first production car looks absolutely lovely. Bellissima Photo by: De Tomaso The production P72 doesn't stray far from the original prototype visually, which is great news. The design was inspired by the 1965 De Tomaso P70, a collaboration between founder Alejandro De Tomaso and Carroll Shelby. This particular model is finished in a bright white paint job with rose gold striping, mirror caps, accents, and matching wheels. The wheels even bear a similar resemblance to those found on the original P70. The P72's curvaceous lines drape over a monocoque chassis formed from a single, continuous piece of carbon fiber, which also extends to the front and rear subframes. There's no bonding, no welding; De Tomaso says its chassis sets a "new benchmark" for structural purity. Photo by: De Tomaso Photo by: De Tomaso Photo by: De Tomaso Speaking of purity, the P72's interior is proudly gimmick-free. There are no screens, no infotainment system. Simply a cockpit-like interior designed to let owners focus on the task at hand: driving. Hand-stitched white leather and exposed carbon fiber cover most surfaces, while a stunning arrangement of tactile, machined aluminum gauges line the dashboard—all finished in rose gold, naturally. That even extends to the exposed shifter. American V-8 Power Photo by: De Tomaso The P72 is powered by a supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 that De Tomaso says was developed exclusively for this vehicle. The company said previously that the engine was derived from a Ford Coyote V-8 and tuned by Roush, which we assume is still true. And by all accounts, it sounds fantastic . Here, that V-8 makes 700 horsepower and 604 pound-feet of torque, routed through a six-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels. De Tomaso doesn't publish figures like a 0-60 mph time or a maximum speed, but the company notes that the P72 wasn't engineered for "top-speed dominance." The De Tomaso P72 doesn't have drive modes, but the pushrod suspension does come with three-way manually adjustable dampers that allow the driver to customize the car to their preferred driving style. Engine Output De Tomaso P72 Supercharged 5.0L V-8 700 HP / 604 LB-FT "The P72 was our promise to faithfully revive a historic marque," says CEO Norman Choi. "This first production-specification vehicle embodies everything we stand for: a mechanical soul, timeless beauty, and a driving experience that rises above modern convention. It is our echo through time—now made real." The De Tomaso P72 begins deliveries later this year, but the company hasn't officially released details on pricing yet. That said, don't expect it to be cheap. 8 Source: De Tomaso More From De Tomaso De Tomaso P900 Debuts With V12 And 12,300 RPM Redline De Tomaso P72 Wows At Lake Como With Baby Blue Paint Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Source: De Tomaso Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Geeky Gadgets
07-05-2025
- Automotive
- Geeky Gadgets
124mph Volonaut Airbike : The Future of Personal Flying Machines
The Volonaut Airbike, a lightweight flying superbike developed by Tomasz Patan, debuts as a personal hoverbike designed for single-person use. Built with advanced carbon fiber materials and 3D-printed components, it is seven times lighter than a conventional superbike. The Airbike features a minimal, open-air design with no frame or visible propellers, allowing for a 360-degree view and compact maneuverability in narrow spaces. Equipped with jet propulsion and a proprietary stabilization system, it can hover automatically and reach speeds of up to 200 km/h (124 mph). The Airbike's design includes rear red tail lights for signaling and sculpted stands for soft landings. Its availability for public use remains unannounced. At the core of the Airbike's design is its emphasis on lightweight construction. By using carbon fiber and 3D-printed components, the vehicle achieves a weight that is seven times lighter than a traditional superbike. Carbon fiber, known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, ensures durability while minimizing overall mass. This material choice enhances the Airbike's performance, allowing for greater agility and efficiency during flight. The integration of 3D printing further improves the design process. This technology enables the precise manufacturing of intricate components, reduces material waste, and accelerates prototyping cycles. Together, these advancements result in a vehicle that is not only lightweight but also highly adaptable to the demands of urban environments. The Airbike's agility makes it particularly well-suited for navigating tight spaces and confined areas, a critical feature for modern cities facing increasing congestion. Jet Propulsion and Stabilization: Precision in Motion The Airbike's propulsion system is powered by jet engines, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h (124 mph). This jet-based approach sets it apart from rotor-driven hoverbikes, offering a smoother and more controlled flight experience. Central to its operation is a proprietary stabilization system managed by an advanced flight computer. This stabilization system ensures precise control, automatic hovering, and smooth maneuverability, even for users with minimal flight experience. By combining high-speed propulsion with advanced stabilization, the Airbike delivers a balance of performance, safety, and reliability. These features allow it to operate effectively in diverse conditions, making it a versatile option for personal air mobility. Watch this video on YouTube. Open-Air Design: Visibility and Maneuverability The Airbike's open-air design is a defining feature that enhances both functionality and user experience. By eliminating the need for a traditional frame or visible propellers, the vehicle provides a 360-degree unobstructed view. This design improves situational awareness, a critical factor for safe and confident flight in urban environments. The compact structure of the Airbike further enhances its maneuverability, allowing it to navigate narrow spaces and confined areas with ease. This capability makes it particularly advantageous for urban settings, where space is often limited. The minimalist aesthetic of the Airbike aligns with futuristic design principles while emphasizing practicality and efficiency as a next-generation transportation solution. Safety and Performance Features Safety is a key consideration in the Airbike's design. Several features have been incorporated to ensure a secure and reliable flying experience: Rear red tail lights enhance visibility in low-light conditions or crowded airspaces, improving safety during operation. enhance visibility in low-light conditions or crowded airspaces, improving safety during operation. Sculpted landing stands provide stable and soft landings, reducing the risk of damage to the vehicle or surrounding surfaces. provide stable and soft landings, reducing the risk of damage to the vehicle or surrounding surfaces. Advanced flight controls simplify operation, making the Airbike accessible to a wide range of users, including those with limited experience in aerial vehicles. These features, combined with the Airbike's high-speed capabilities, position it as a practical and innovative tool for personal aerial mobility. The focus on safety and performance underscores its potential as a reliable transportation option in various scenarios. Addressing Urban Mobility Challenges As urban areas face growing congestion and infrastructure limitations, the demand for efficient and compact transportation solutions continues to rise. The Volonaut Airbike addresses these challenges by offering a lightweight, high-speed alternative to traditional ground-based vehicles. Its ability to hover and navigate confined spaces makes it particularly well-suited for densely populated cities. By reducing reliance on conventional transportation methods, the Airbike has the potential to alleviate traffic congestion and improve overall mobility. Furthermore, its advanced technologies demonstrate how innovation can reshape the way people move through crowded environments, offering a glimpse into the future of urban transportation. Future Prospects and Potential Applications Although the Volonaut Airbike has garnered significant attention for its innovative design, it is not yet available for public use. Officially unveiled on May 1, 2025, following a period of stealth development, the vehicle has yet to enter the commercial market. Despite its current unavailability, the Airbike's potential applications extend beyond personal transportation. Possible uses include: Emergency response : Rapid deployment in disaster zones or medical emergencies where traditional vehicles may face delays. : Rapid deployment in disaster zones or medical emergencies where traditional vehicles may face delays. Surveillance and security : Enhanced monitoring capabilities for law enforcement or private security operations. : Enhanced monitoring capabilities for law enforcement or private security operations. Recreational activities: Offering a unique and thrilling experience for enthusiasts of aerial sports and adventure. As the technology matures, the Airbike could pave the way for a new era of aerial mobility, influencing industries and individuals alike. Its versatility highlights the broader potential of personal air vehicles in addressing diverse challenges and opportunities. A Milestone in Hoverbike Technology The Volonaut Airbike stands as a testament to the possibilities of innovation in personal air mobility. By combining lightweight materials, advanced propulsion systems, and user-focused design, it offers a compelling vision of the future. While its commercial release remains uncertain, the Airbike's debut marks a significant achievement in the field of hoverbike technology. It provides a glimpse into a future where air travel is no longer limited to large-scale aircraft but becomes accessible to individuals navigating urban skies. As advancements in aerial mobility continue, the Volonaut Airbike may serve as a foundational model for the next generation of personal transportation solutions. Expand your understanding of robotics from our extensive library of articles. Filed Under: Design News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
