Materials for Car Interiors

CONC Material Letter

The final destination for material concerns, CONC Library. We think together about the thousands of material challenges designers face and share the answers and processes.

"I'm here to explore materials for Car Interiors! Show me what you've got! 🌱"

Oh, Sweet New Semester

This marks the fourth spring at Conc Hapjeong, and with it comes the vibrant energy of a new school term. Even the once-dreary 9 AM subway commute, filled only with tired office workers, now carries the lively presence of university students. Since March, we've been seeing a steady stream of student visitors—both in groups and solo—coming to the library. (Apparently, midterms are already around the corner…)

Among them, what stood out the most was the influx of students majoring in Automotive & Transportation Design. Automotive design? Cars always seemed like an ultra-specialized, high-tech field—far removed from product or industrial design. But after their visit, I started looking into the latest trends in car interiors and material applications, and even from a spatial design perspective, it turned out to be quite fascinating.

Go-Van

Beyond just driving, some people have mastered the art of living inside their vehicles. Clever layout solutions—like optimized storage and rotating seats—resemble the tricks used in compact studio apartments or tiny urban lofts.

NomadPro Center, FUSO

A concept car designed as a mobile office. It features a foldable two-person table and bench, neatly stowed away when not in use. The design is compact, yet by lifting the side panel, the space opens up seamlessly to the outdoors.

EV9, 현대자동차

The EV9 integrates sustainability into both its interior and exterior. Recycled materials are used throughout the vehicle, from the floor to the headrests and decorative trims. Each unit incorporates over 70 recycled PET bottles.

Origin, GM Cruise

Former GM Cruise CEO Dan Ammann once noted that American commuters spend a staggering 8 billion hours stuck in traffic each year. Origin is an autonomous vehicle designed for ride-sharing, with no steering wheel or pedals. Instead, its seats face each other, creating a room-like atmosphere.

Exploring Materials for Car Interiors

Looking at these references, it’s clear that home interior trends are making their way into vehicle design. The growing demand for sustainability and the challenge of maximizing limited space for work, leisure, and rest seem to be driving this shift. Cars are evolving into smaller yet highly personal spaces—becoming soft, adaptable environments where individuality can truly shine.

If only there were materials that better suited these new trends! After digging into the options, I found that the automotive industry’s strict safety regulations mean many materials are still in the research phase. But that doesn’t mean we should dismiss the possibilities. Keeping an open mind, I’ve gathered some innovative materials that align with emerging sustainability and design trends. Below, I’ve added subjective reviews summarizing my thoughts on each.

(1) Various Plastic Pellets

Overall Car, I'm on my way to you.

A collection of plastic pellets and application samples categorized as eco-friendly for different reasons—whether they emit less carbon during production, are biodegradable, or use biomass-based raw materials. However, given the strict safety and reliability standards in automotive design, further research is needed before they can be widely adopted. Currently, they’re more commonly used in packaging and consumer products.

(2) Paperette

Overall Lighter than paper, tough as leather

A version of the durable Tyvek fiber adapted for automotive use. It’s lightweight, tear-resistant, and can be sewn or cut. When combined with insert molding (a technique that integrates components and materials in a single manufacturing process), it significantly reduces production costs. It’s already been applied to the door panels of the Hyundai IONIQ 5.

(3) TPE, TPV

Overall The all-rounder—sustainable, durable, and versatile

These new-generation materials retain the recyclability of plastics while mimicking the softness and flexibility of rubber—yet they belong to neither category. Their exceptional safety makes them suitable for both exterior and interior applications, even under the hood. Plus, they’re 100% recyclable.

(4) Kurz Foil

Overall Thank you, Yes-Man!

In automotive manufacturing, different parts require different production processes. This means designers must carefully select materials that suit each specific method. Kurz Foil, however, is a rare exception—it’s compatible with almost all manufacturing techniques. This allows for a cohesive design across all components without material constraints.

(5) Vegan Leather

Overall Driving towards cruelty-free seating

The push to replace traditional animal leather with vegan alternatives is gaining momentum in the automotive industry. Vegan leathers made from bamboo, mango, apple juice byproducts, and other plant-based sources are emerging, though they’re not yet durable enough for widespread car interior use. Synthetic alternatives, such as silicone-based leather, are already being applied to seating.

Back in university, I remember enthusiastically 3D-modeling designs on my computer, only to later wonder, Wait, is this even physically possible? For the students who visited our library, regardless of their major, I hope they left with a few valuable insights. Problem solved for today.