Mercedes-Benz taps Modern Meadow for 80% plant-based leather

In Germany, luxury car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz has partnered with New Jersey biodesign firm Moden Meadow to develop a next-generation leather alternative for its CONCEPT AMG GT XX electric concept car.

The material in question, called INNOVERA™, is made from a blend of plant-based proteins, biopolymers, and chemically recycled AMG GT3 racing tires.  It achieves over 80% renewable carbon content and is entirely animal-free.

According to the companies, INNOVERA replicates the structure and feel of collagen found in leather, while offering superior performance characteristics such as breathability, waterproofing, and double the tensile strength of conventional materials. One recycled racing tire can yield approximately four square meters of INNOVERA.

The collaboration aims to scale the material for future production models.