Volkswagen is leading the charge towards a more sustainable automotive future by partnering with Revoltech to develop innovative hemp-based materials. The collaboration aims to create a circular economy and reduce the environmental impact of vehicle production.
A groundbreaking partnership between Volkswagen and Revoltech is poised to revolutionize the automotive industry. The companies are working together to develop sustainable materials made from industrial hemp, offering a promising solution for a greener future.Berlin, Germany - August 30, 2024:
Volkswagen has taken a significant step towards a more sustainable future by partnering with German start-up Revoltech GmbH. The collaboration aims to research and develop innovative materials made from industrial hemp, which could potentially be used in Volkswagen models as early as 2028.
The material in question is a 100% bio-based hemp product that utilizes residues from the regional hemp industry. It can be produced on existing industrial plants, ensuring scalability and efficiency. Moreover, at the end of its service life, the material can be recycled or composted, aligning with Volkswagen's commitment to circularity.
Kai Grünitz, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Technical Development, emphasized the company's openness to new ideas and its focus on innovative, sustainable solutions. Andreas Walingen, Head of Strategy, underscored the importance of resource sustainability in Volkswagen's ACCELERATE strategy. The partnership with Revoltech is seen as a prime example of how collaboration between established companies and start-ups can accelerate the development of new features.
Lucas Fuhrmann, CEO of Revoltech GmbH, highlighted the groundbreaking nature of the LOVR™ material, which is being developed specifically for the automotive industry. The material offers a scalable and sustainable alternative to traditional leather, making it a promising option for Volkswagen's future models.
The collaboration between Volkswagen and Revoltech focuses on developing a leather-free, oil-free, vegan, and residue-based surface material. The material is made from hemp fibers and a fully bio-based adhesive, ensuring its sustainability and circularity. It can be produced on existing industrial plants, facilitating rapid scalability and making it suitable for large-scale production.
Volkswagen's Materials Technology, Design, and Components Development departments, Volkswagen Group Innovation, and Revoltech GmbH are working together to explore potential applications for the new material. The goal is to include the material in vehicle projects starting in 2028. Initial customer surveys have shown positive feedback for the innovative material.
This partnership between Volkswagen and Revoltech represents a significant step towards a more sustainable automotive industry. By developing innovative materials made from industrial hemp, Volkswagen is demonstrating its commitment to reducing its environmental impact and offering customers products that are both sustainable and stylish.