Volvo will go leather-free in electric models

Swedish manufacturer Volvo has stepped up its commitment to being one of the automotive industry's green leaders, promising its future electric cars will be void of animal-derived products.

Pledging to ditch leather from its cars by 2030 when its line-up becomes fully electric, Volvo will be utilising vegan alternatives while still aiming to retain a high-quality finish, not wanting the move to dilute the occupant's experience.

Volvo has said it will debut its new Nordico interior material in its next generation of models, a textile made from recycled PET bottles, bio-sustainably sourced forest materials from Sweden and Finland along with recycled wine bottle corks.

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Volvo's director of global sustainability, Stuart Templar, said the manufacturer needed to apply itself to achieving sustainability across all fronts, becoming a leader in the industry for its eco-friendly outlook.

“Being a progressive car maker means we need to address all areas of sustainability, not just CO2 emissions,” said Templar.

“Responsible sourcing is an important part of that work, including respect for animal welfare. Going leather-free inside our pure electric cars is a good next step towards addressing this issue.

“Finding products and materials that support animal welfare will be challenging, but that is no reason to avoid this important issue. This is a journey worth taking. Having a truly progressive and sustainable mindset means we need to ask ourselves difficult questions and actively try to find answers.”

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Responsibly sourced wool blends are still on the cards to be used by Volvo, so long as the suppliers can certify their materials are being gathered ethically and animal welfare is paramount in the supply chain.

The investment from Volvo into future technologies stretches beyond its interior trim choices – the manufacturer has recently partnered with steel makers SSAB to develop fossil-free steel for its vehicles, as well as bringing its battery development in-house through a joint venture with Northvolt.