BMW and MINI plan to offer a greener interior from 2023

BMW and MINI are looking forward to presenting unique futuristic models with innovative and advanced features. The two companies recently announced that their models will be equipped with a more environmentally friendly cabin than could be imagined. A functional interior will be built from developed materials of plant origin; BMW hopes to reduce emissions from producing its interior surfaces with traditional leather by 85 percent.

What is BMW's view of sourcing animal hides?

BMW revealed some sources of leather used in the construction of the interior of cars, as one of them comes from a purely animal source; It is the leather of cows, although it is a luxurious and durable leather; However, the use of bovine hides may increase environmental pollution; BMW explained that 80 percent of the emissions resulting from the preparation of leather for its cars come from methane gas emitted from cows, and the percentage increases by 20 percent as a result of tanning and treatment processes, in addition to that the method of obtaining this source is contrary to ethical principles towards the protection and rights of animals. So BMW is looking to stop acquiring this leather source once and for all.

Innovative interior construction that contributes to achieving climate neutrality in 2025

And based on the German manufacturer's commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2050; BMW has developed leather alternatives with high levels of quality and luxury; It would even be thought of as undeveloped genuine leather, and the company has worked hard to make sure the material is ready for challenges, and says ensuring it can withstand use on the steering wheel has been one of its most challenging aspects.

In this regard, Uwe Köhler, Head of Development for the Exterior and Interior Decoration at BMW of Germany, said: "The innovative materials resist wear and tear caused by moisture and have all the desirable properties available in natural leather."

Materials Manufacturing Sources for BMW and MINI Interior Construction

Currently, the automaker plans to offer interior designs entirely from plant sources, while there will remain some simple ingredients that come from animal sources, these include gelatin used in protective coatings, lanolin in paints, grease as an additive, beeswax as a paint flux, and some Other simple components. But it should be noted, according to BMW, that these animal products will amount to less than one percent in the construction of the interior.

In addition, the automaker is making other materials that were already plant-based, such as carpeting, easier to recycle, by making them from a single material rather than a mixture of materials, so they are easier to break down and reuse later.

Finally, the automaker will offer an all-vegetable-source interior option in some BMW and MINI vehicles, starting in 2023.

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