The use of circular knit fabrics for automotive applications has increased significantly since the early 1980s. Automotive applications of circular knit fabrics include uphlostery and cover material for head liners, pillars, door panels, and head rests. Properties of knit fabrics that make them desirable for automotive applications include the ability to produce numberous single and double knit constructions, quick and unlimited patterning possiblilites, and controlled elasticity. Ebyl Krems has developed the APL circular knitting machine especially for the production of automotive fabrics. The APL machine is available in three models. The APL-2 is available in 24 and 35 inch diameters knitting 860 and 960 courses per minute, respectively. The APL-E features electronic needle selection and knits up to three colors. It is available in 24 and 30 inch models knitting one color at speeds of 960 and 1080 courses per minute, respectively.