Benecke Changshun, a Chinese-German joint venture specializing in automotive interior materials, has received the 2026 Golden Steering Award for Best Technical Practice Application for its Acella Soft ultra-soft surface solution. The award, presented by Gasgoo at the 8th Golden Steering Awards ceremony held in Shanghai on October 23, highlights the company's technological innovation and its application value in the evolving automotive cabin.
Acella Soft: A Leap in Interior Comfort
Acella Soft is designed to enhance the in-cabin experience, which is increasingly seen as a "third living space." The material offers a 30% to 50% improvement in softness compared to industry-standard products, while maintaining excellent resilience, support, and resistance to wear and staining. It also features low odor and low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, contributing to a healthier cabin environment. The solution is adaptable for various interior applications, including instrument panels, door panels, and seats, and is available in a bio-based, low-carbon version to support sustainability goals.
According to Benecke Changshun's R&D director, Ma Yao, the development of Acella Soft stems from a pursuit of future cabin comfort. "We hope that through material innovation, soft touch, health, environmental protection, and durability can truly integrate into daily travel," Ma said.
From Local Innovation to Global Value
The award also underscores Benecke Changshun's strategic shift from importing European technology to fostering local innovation in China. Karsten Knerr, general manager of Benecke Changshun, noted, "Having been deeply rooted in China for over 20 years, we have transitioned from introducing European technology to implementing local innovation. Facing the development opportunities of new energy vehicles and intelligent cockpits, we continue to increase local R&D investment to create customer value with innovations closer to market needs."
The company is now moving from "rooted in China, serving China" to "rooted in China, serving the world," leveraging its local R&D capabilities to support the global automotive industry. The recognition at the Golden Steering Awards, which this year focused on "Chinese Solutions" for global application, reflects the growing influence of Chinese-developed automotive technologies on the world stage. The event was organized by Gasgoo, a leading automotive industry media and data service provider in China, according to the report from D1EV.
