In South Korea, automaker Kia has unveiled a new concept car with an emphasis on renewable materials. The SUV EV2, exhibited at Milan Design Week 2025 as part of the Transcend Journey at Eastend Studios, uses hemp, mycelium, flax fibers, and recycled textiles for several interior elements.
Such materials include cellulose-based Simplifyber Fybron, which is made from renewable sources such as wood, paper, and recycled textiles and is used in dashboard and door panels. Mycelium is infused with polyurethane and applied across light blue interior surfaces. Mycelium combined with cellulose from agricultural waste is also used in several solid structures, such as the door armrest. Biobased composites made from flax fibers, sourced from Bcomp, are used in the back seat shell and front seat substructures.
The SUV EV2 is expected to reach the market in 2026.