Volkswagen, the world’s second-largest automaker, has announced a partnership with German start-up Revoltech GmbH to develop sustainable leather alternative materials for their vehicles.
The collaboration is focused on researching industrial hemp-based materials that could be integrated into Volkswagen’s car interiors by 2028. This initiative aligns with the company’s ACCELERATE strategy, which prioritizes sustainability and resource-efficient practices.
“The sustainable use of resources is a key pillar in our ACCELERATE strategy and is therefore firmly anchored in our mindset and our actions,”
Andreas Walingen, Head of strategy at Volkswagen,
Volkswagen’s goal is to balance customer preferences, sustainability objectives, and corporate interests, ensuring that eco-friendly materials become a mainstay in their vehicle production process.
Revoltech’s new material called LOVR. Made from 100% biological hemp residues, LOVR stands for leather-free, oil-free, vegan, and residue-based.
This material is produced using existing industrial plants. Once it reaches the end of its service life in a car, it can be recycled or composted, offering a truly sustainable solution for the automotive industry.
“Our innovative surface material called LOVR that we are developing and testing for the automotive industry in cooperation with Volkswagen is scalable and groundbreaking for sustainability in the automotive sector.”
Lucas Fuhrmann, CEO and co-founder of Revoltech GmbH
Leather Industry Voices Concerns
While Volkswagen’s hemp initiative has been well-received by sustainability advocates, it has sparked concerns within the leather industry.
Several leather producers and industry representatives have expressed dissatisfaction with the growing shift toward alternative materials, fearing that it may undermine the importance of leather, a time-tested and durable material used in automotive interiors for decades.
“The move away from leather, especially in luxury cars, is worrisome. Leather is not just about tradition, it’s about quality, durability, and luxury. Many customers associate leather interiors with premium experiences, and we fear this trend could diminish the value of leather craftsmanship.”
One executive from a major leather supplier, voiced frustration
Others in the industry have questioned whether hemp-based alternatives can truly match the performance and longevity of leather.
“Hemp may be eco-friendly, but leather is a sustainable material too, as it’s a byproduct of the meat industry. It’s highly durable and recyclable. Shifting to vegan materials like hemp without fully understanding the trade-offs could alienate a loyal customer base.”
A spokesperson from an international leather association stated
Despite the leather industry’s concerns, the initial presentations of LOVR have already garnered positive responses from potential customers. Volkswagen’s technical development team has embraced the project with enthusiasm.
“In our search for new materials, we are very open to new ideas from many different industries. At Technical Development, we place a strong focus on innovative, creative, and sustainable solutions for holistic, resource-saving vehicle development.”
Kai Grünitz, a Volkswagen brand board member responsible for technical development
Hemp in the Automotive Industry
Volkswagen is not the first automaker to explore the potential of hemp.
Other automotive giants, such as BMW, Ford, and Mercedes-Benz, have already tested hemp-based materials in their vehicles.
BMW’s i3 electric car features door panels made from hemp and bio-based plastic, while Ford’s Focus model includes natural fiber composites in its interior. Mercedes-Benz has also incorporated hemp-based materials into various parts of its car interiors.
Hemp’s versatility extends beyond just interiors. Its fibers can blend with polymers, making it ideal for exterior applications as well.
The inclusion of hemp in car composites increases the stiffness and strength of structural components, improving crash performance and enhancing the overall integrity of the vehicle.
Additionally, hemp fibers possess excellent soundproofing and thermal properties, making them useful in panels and other materials that require insulation.
Germany’s Evolving Hemp Legislation
Volkswagen’s decision to embrace hemp-based materials comes at a time when Germany is modernizing its laws around hemp and cannabis. In July, the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture introduced a draft bill aimed at eliminating legal uncertainties in industrial hemp cultivation through the Industrial Hemp Liberalization Act (NLG).
This legislative reform is expected to open new opportunities for industries that rely on hemp, including automotive and construction.
In conclusion, Volkswagen’s partnership with Revoltech marks an exciting step toward more sustainable automotive production. While the leather industry remains skeptical about the shift to hemp-based materials, the broader automotive sector is eager to explore the benefits of this eco-friendly innovation. As Germany continues to reform its hemp laws, Volkswagen is well-positioned to lead the charge in sustainable car production, setting an example for other automakers to follow.
