Exclusive: Hyundai is working with a startup on plant-based leather that smells like the real thing | TechCrunch

"Based on the samples currently sitting on my desk, leather alternatives don't have to feel so artificial or be so harsh on the environment. Most fake leathers are made using plastics derived from fossil fuels. The samples from Uncaged Innovations, though, are made mostly using grains including wheat, soy, and corn. The results feels remarkably like a variety of real animal leathers. One even smelled like it."

"Uncaged exclusively told TechCrunch that it's now working with Hyundai's Cradle division to refine its material for automotive use. The goal is to create a durable, animal- and climate-friendly material that can replace leather in cars and trucks. Uncaged says its material's carbon footprint is 95% lower than that of leather. Last month, the startup also announced a partnership with Jaguar Land Rover."

Leather alternatives are often made from plastics derived from fossil fuels, but grain-based materials can offer a more sustainable path. Materials made mostly from wheat, soy, and corn can feel and even smell like real animal leathers while cutting carbon emissions dramatically. Startups are refining these biobased materials for automotive interiors, targeting durability and customizability to match many types of leather. Automakers use multiple cowhides per interior, creating a significant environmental and supply impact. Early faux leathers date to the Model T era, and modern biobased options aim to replace animal leather in cars and fashion goods.

Read at TechCrunch