A conductive liner includes an electrically non-conductive core layer between
two
electrically conductive layers. At least one of the two electrically conductive
layers includes conductive particles. The electrically conductive layers are capable
of conducting sufficient electricity to power at least one electrical component
in a vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the conductive particles are fibers, such
as carbon fibers, or the like that are preferably homogeneously dispersed within
the conductive layer. The conductive fiber layers provide structural reinforcement
to the liner, in addition to providing electrical conductivity. The conductive
liner can further include a top and bottom scrim/adhesive layer, as well as a decorative,
cover material layer. The present invention eliminates the need for a separate
wiring and wire harness as in conventional liners. When the conductive layer comprises
reinforcing fiber, the present invention also eliminates the need to have non-conductive
reinforcing material, such as fiberglass reinforcing layers to sandwich the core
layer of the liner. A method of making the electrically conductive liner of the
invention is also disclosed.
