Published 01 September 2023

15 min read

Carmakers are racing towards carbon neutrality, but the path to sustainability is a huge challenge, underpinned by decarbonisation, climate targets and supply chain volatility. We examine the next-gen sustainable materials set to drive change in the automotive sector and highlight inspiring eco-engineered vehicles and concepts.

Recycling Efforts Ramp Up

Visionary Flagship Vehicles

Lightweight & Efficient Solutions

Bio-Based Developments

Revolutionising Tyres

Every year, more than six million vehicles reach the end of their life and are treated as waste in Europe (European Commission, 2023). Brands and policymakers are developing new legislation and methods for recycling and reuse, to enhance circular approaches in both vehicle manufacturing and end-of-life handling.

Every year, more than six million vehicles reach the end of their life and are treated as waste in Europe (European Commission, 2023). Brands and policymakers are developing new legislation and methods for recycling and reuse, to enhance circular approaches in both vehicle manufacturing and end-of-life handling.

Summary

Recycling Efforts Ramp Up

Every year, more than six million vehicles reach the end of their life and are treated as waste in Europe (European Commission, 2023). Brands and policymakers are developing new legislation and methods for recycling and reuse, to enhance circular approaches in both vehicle manufacturing and end-of-life handling.

Visionary Flagship Vehicles

Progressive brands are leaning into sustainable luxury with striking prospective cars, which serve as innovation testbeds and blueprints for future sustainable production. Many adopt a 360° approach to circularity and eco-friendly material sourcing, presenting a plethora of new ideas. These provide inspiration for designers, engineers and consumers alike.

Lightweight & Efficient Solutions

Auto manufacturers are competing to become industry leaders in making the switch to green steel – a shrewd move that will achieve substantially lower embodied emissions. Elsewhere, lightweighting is a reductive strategy that’s spurring innovations in aluminium, carbon fibre and graphene.

Bio-Based Developments

Bio-based materials are increasingly sought-after as they offer a renewable low-carbon alternative to traditional synthetics. Innovative cellulosic fibres and composites and lab-grown leather alternatives are set to be disruptive, following significant investment. Meanwhile, conventional leather is experiencing an eco-conscious overhaul.

Revolutionising Tyres

The race is on to decarbonise commercial tyres and reduce the industry’s reliance on petroleum. New rubber compounds contain increasingly higher levels of recycled or renewable materials. Meanwhile, end-of-life management and enhanced durability are key to prevent tyre wear pollutants and keep the intrinsic value held in tyres.

Materials for Climate-Friendly Cars

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Topics

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Offering access to over 350 consumer and cross-industry reports annually, Stylus Membership is your window to tomorrow’s most exciting opportunities.

We already arm more than 500 of the world’s most forward-thinking brands and agencies with the creative insights they need to make transformative business decisions.

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CMF Industry View: Automotive 26/27

CMF Industry View: Automotive 26/27

CMF Industry View: Automotive 26/27

CMF Industry View: Automotive 26/27

CMF Industry View: Automotive 26/27

An elevated driver experience is central to many of the latest and upcoming launches within automotive, with brands prioritising comfort, customisation, joy, and tactile, emotional engagement. We highlight the key colour, material and finish (CMF) developments and innovations that will define the sector in the years to...

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