Hyundai Cradle, the innovation arm of Hyundai Motor has recently joined forces with Uncaged Innovations to work on animal/leather free alternatives for the interiors of its cars. Uncaged is a global leader in biomaterials and was an ideal partner for Hyundai’s project.
The hero product thus far has been a grain based byproduct to replace traditional leather materials used in its interiors. Production of this material uses 95% lesser greenhouse gases, 89% less water and 71% less energy compared to leather. Hyundai reckons that all the above have been made “without compromising on texture, durability or luxurious quality”. The material is dyed uses coffee bean shells and uses grain based proteins to mimic the collagen from animal hides, the protein that gives leather its skin like feel and durability.
The move continues to strengthen Hyundai’s innovation in material manufacturing as well as its responsibility to the the globe, reinforcing its position as a global leader in sustainable mobility.
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Words by Matthew D’Souza, media courtesy of Hyundai News.
