Veganism spreads from the menu to the automobile

Veganism is now a strict diet for many people. And with it often comes a set of lifestyle choices that are similarly animal-free in nature.

For automotive content suppliers, that raises new material concerns based around the use of synthetic leathers.

Last year, Audi rolled out the striking e-tron GT concept, a low-slung, wide, all-wheel-drive performance sedan. Inside, the concept had a modern and sleek interior on a par with the offerings of a trendy furniture store. Its four-seat cabin was also vegan, meaning there were no animal-based products to be found.

Designers employed synthetic leathers on the racing-style seats and trim pieces, and used yarn made of fiber from recycled fishing nets for the carpeting.

Tesla has been offering vegan seats since 2017, and will add a steering wheel wrapped in synthetic leather for the Model 3 and upcoming Model Y, Car and Driver reported in June.

Polestar, Volvo's stand-alone electrified brand, said this year that its second model, the Polestar 2, will use materials free of animal products for the interior.

"We have designed a standard vegan interior with progressive textiles that will appeal to the forward-thinking audience who will subscribe to the Polestar 2," Polestar design boss Maximilian Missoni said in a statement when the model was unveiled.