Leather in an evolving automotive market…

Photo by Markus Spiske: https://www.pexels.com/

A key sector that is facing significant challenges is the automotive industry, where leather has long been a staple material, known for its luxurious feel, durability, and aesthetic appeal. From high-end luxury cars to more mainstream vehicles, leather seats and interiors remain a popular choice for consumers seeking comfort and elegance. However, with shifting consumer preferences, environmental concerns, and technological advancements, the role of leather in the automotive sector is under scrutiny.
Worryingly in some cases, even when leather is still the preferred interior choice of the consumer, there have been some car manufacturers that are selling plastic and referring to it as leather, effectively deceiving their customers. So why are some automotive companies shifting away from leather?
Despite its popularity, leather’s role in the automotive sector faces growing questions around environmental concerns. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, questions about the sustainability of leather production and the ethical treatment of animals have come to the forefront. Links to deforestation, poor animal welfare, water pollution, and high carbon emissions, have been exacerbated by reports such as “Driving Deforestation: The European Automotive Industry’s Contribution to Deforestation in Brazil” by Rainforest Foundation Norway and AidAlliance. The report assessed 15 automotive supply chain companies on their due diligence policies and practices regarding leather-related deforestation risks. The report also found that the top five car manufacturers have some exposure to up to 1.1 million hectares of recent deforestation. Headlines and reports like this have put the automative OEMs under pressure to abandon leather or at least to ensure that any leather sourced is traceable with no sustainability risks attached to it.

There is another reason why some automotive companies try to switch away from leather and that is virtue signalling. It is a hard truth that leather can be substituted for inferior plastic, however, there are far more damaging components [for the planet] that car manufacturers cannot substitute. Cobalt, lithium and nickel mining are fraught with human rights issues such as child and slave labour, as well as being finite resources. Rubber for tyres holds the same risk of deforestation as cattle farming, but a car needs tyres. So, by virtue signalling about not using leather in car interiors, some OEMs shine the spotlight away from the other damaging components and onto a material that is inter-changeable. We should not mistake that substitution as being a better performing material in any way, but it is not always so straightforward when we consider why leather is being sacrificed.

We also know that some OEMs who have previously made commitments to remove leather from their car interiors are now returning to it. More recently there has been a show of commitment from high end car manufacturers Bentley, VW Group and BMW joining leather organisations such as Leather Working Group and Leather Naturally. At the same time, other automotive manufacturers are exploring alternatives or have committed to reducing or eliminating leather use altogether. For instance, Tesla only offers synthetic material as a seating option in an effort to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, while Volvo has committed to a leather-free future for its electric vehicles.

With increasing consumer demand for ethical and sustainable options, many automotive manufacturers are turning to alternatives like synthetics and other materials in order to meet vegan or lifestyle value sets.
Some companies are going a step further by incorporating innovative materials into their interiors. BMW, for example, has experimented with leather alternatives made from renewable resources such as mushroom-based mycelium, cactus leather, and even recycled materials. These innovations represent a shift in consumer preference and a broader move toward sustainability in automotive design.

Vegan materials are appealing not only to eco-conscious consumers but also to automotive manufacturers seeking to reduce their costs with cheaper raw materials. As electric vehicles become more mainstream and the focus on sustainability intensifies, leather substitutes could play an even greater role in the future of automotive interiors.

While sustainability is a key driver of change, technology is also reshaping the way leather is processed and used in vehicles. Innovations in tanning processes have made it possible to produce leather that is more durable, lighter, and easier to maintain. These advancements allow automotive manufacturers to retain the luxurious appeal of leather while improving its functionality for modern vehicles.

New types of leather can now offer a softer and more natural finish, while high-performance leathers are engineered to resist stains, UV damage, and even extreme temperatures. These developments make leather even more practical for use in a wider range of vehicles, including those designed for harsher environments.

Looking ahead, leather is likely to remain a key material in the automotive industry, but its use will continue to evolve. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technologies are reshaping consumer expectations for car interiors. As EVs often emphasise sustainability, OEMs may increasingly focus on non-sensitive materials, further reducing its reliance on leather.

However, leather’s timeless appeal and ability to offer comfort and luxury are unlikely to disappear entirely. Instead, the automotive industry is expected to adopt a hybrid approach, blending leather with high-quality synthetic alternatives and innovative new materials and this will allow brands to cater to a wider range of consumer preferences.

Leather’s role in the automotive industry is both enduring and evolving. While it remains a symbol of luxury and comfort, the rise of alternatives and new consumer preferences are reshaping its future. The automotive sector is at a crossroads where tradition meets innovation, and the material choices made today will define the driving experience of tomorrow. Whether through advancements in sustainable leather production or the adoption of cutting-edge alternatives, our role in the leather industry is to ensure that we are meeting the sustainability expectations and regulations of the future.

For more information about how Sustainable Leather Foundation supports the industry, you can visit our website: www.sustainableleatherfoundation.com or email us at info@sustainableleatherfoundation.com