Mitsubishi Chemical Group Acquires Manufacturer of Automobile Components Crafted from Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic

The Mitsubishi Chemical Group (MCG Group) announced it has attained full ownership of CPC SRL (CPC), a renowned Italian company specializing in the manufacturing and distribution of automobile components crafted from carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). This pivotal acquisition that began with minority ownership in 2017 aligns with MCG Group’s long-term strategic vision to further expand and enhance its vertically integrated carbon fiber supply chain. The transaction, subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to close in late 2023.

CFRP has drawn increasing interest in the global automobile market due to its role in making car bodies lighter—a crucial factor in meeting stringent fuel economy regulations and reducing CO2 emissions. With the automotive industry moving rapidly toward using CFRP in their auto components, the MCG Group is poised to become a dominant player by offering optimal solutions to customers throughout the value chain, from component design to production.

CPC has technological expertise and know-how in a range of auto component fields, including component design and simulation, molding of carbon fiber composite materials, tooling and mold design and manufacturing, painting composites and sub-component assembly. With one of the world’s largest press facilities capable of developing and molding large component materials exclusively dedicated to composite materials, the MCG Group is well-positioned to accelerate the use of carbon fiber composite materials, such as Sheet Molding Compound (CF-SMC) and Prepreg Compression Molding (PCM) in automotive components by leveraging CPC’s design capabilities, molding technologies, development and proposal power, and its commercial distribution networks with European and U.S. car makers.

This partnership extends beyond immediate goals, with both the MCG Group and CPC committed to cooperating further in providing sustainable solutions for the future, including the development of bio-based and recycled carbon fiber intermediate materials.