Driven by the need for innovation, sustainability, and enhanced passenger experiences, the transportation industry is continuously evolving. The adoption of advanced materials serves as a critical component of this evolution. These materials not only improve the aesthetics and performance of vehicles but also align with environmental goals.
In this context, synthetic leather surface materials have emerged as a game-changing innovation, revolutionizing the transportation market. Synthetic leather is expected to account for over 60% of the global automotive seating market by 2028.
As per the projection of BIS Research, the synthetic leather surface materials for transportation market are expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.76% and reach $26.96 billion by 2032.
Synthetic leather, or vegan leather, replicates the appearance and texture of genuine leather using alternative materials such as PVC, polyurethane, silicone, and bio-based substances.
In the automotive sector, synthetic leather finds extensive application in car seat covers, steering wheel covers, dashboards, and door trims. Its popularity stems from its remarkable resilience to wear and tear, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations, making it an ideal choice for both luxury and economy vehicles.
In June 2023, BASF, a German chemical company, announced the launch of Infinergy TPU foam to create lightweight and durable automotive seating.
In this industry, synthetic leather is the material of choice for boat and yacht upholstery. Its water resistance, UV resistance, and capacity to endure harsh marine conditions make it a preferred option. Additionally, its ease of cleaning provides a significant advantage in this demanding environment.
In February 2023, Ultrafabrics, a leader in synthetic leather materials, announced the launch of its new Ultraleather Prodigy marine vinyl. This is to withstand the harsh marine environment while still offering the look, feel, and performance of genuine leather.
In aviation, synthetic leather is widely employed for aircraft seat upholstery, headrests, and various interior components. Its lightweight nature is essential for fuel efficiency, and it meets the stringent fire safety standards set by the aviation industry.
In June 2023, Boeing partnered with Teijin to create eco-friendly synthetic leather for aircraft interiors, using recycled polyester to cut carbon emissions by up to 50%.
In this industry, synthetic leather is prominently utilized for train seat covers. Its selection is driven by its robust durability, ease of maintenance, resistance to stains, and its ability to provide a comfortable and pleasant seating experience for passengers.
In August 2023, the U.K.'s Yarwood Leather Ltd. unveiled RailGrade, a synthetic leather tailored for railway interiors, boasting enhanced durability, stain resistance, and flame retardancy.
The sustainability of synthetic leather depends on several factors, including the materials used, production processes, and end-of-life considerations. Synthetic leather is comparatively more sustainable than traditional leather since it does not require the use of animal products.
Moreover, synthetic leather has the potential for utilizing recycled materials such as PET bottles, thereby contributing to a reduction in its ecological footprint.
However, the quality of synthetic leather varies significantly. Certain synthetic leather variants are derived from petroleum-based substances and may encompass environmentally detrimental compounds, such as phthalates, which have adverse effects on the environment.
Furthermore, manufacturing procedures can be highly energy-demanding and produce harmful emissions. In addition, certain synthetic leathers might undergo chemical treatments to enhance their performance, thereby amplifying their environmental impact.
Lastly, it is crucial to contemplate the disposal options for synthetic leather at the end of its lifecycle. Some synthetic leathers are not biodegradable and can end up in landfills. Additionally, some synthetic leathers may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the environment if they are not disposed of properly.
A 2023 study by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation found that synthetic leather that is designed for recyclability can have an environmental impact that is up to 80% lower than traditional leather.
According to Dhrubajyoti Narayan, Principal Analyst, BIS Research, “Business collaboration and product development are key strategies assisting the market's growth. The massive shift in consumer preferences has provided a viable opportunity for synthetic leather manufacturers to gain strong ground in this domain.”
Moreover, the rising awareness regarding sustainable leather is anticipated to boost the global adoption of synthetic leather surface materials in transportation.
