the invention is a fiber reinforced thermoplastic automotive bumper wherein the reduced fiber additions consist of a long , chopped glass mat with the addition of mineral fillers such as mica , talc or clay . the modified thermoplastic is used to produce i - section bumpers . the improved reinforced thermoplastic material has favorable flow characteristics which enable the material to substantially fill the deep ribs and mounting stay structures used in i - section bumpers during compression molding while improving the modulus or cross - face stiffness of the finished part . for the first time , improved flow characteristics during molding permit the material to flow evenly into small ribs , bosses and other features . the invention makes it possible to increase part integration , molding pencil braces , fascia supports , mounting holes and mounting stays . the front surface of the bumper may be covered with a conformal energy absorber made of plastic foarn . moreover , the absorber serves to mount appearance fascia . the result is a cost - reduced , weight - reduced bumper with improved impact resistance .