Hyundai is working with a startup on plant-based leather that smells like the real thing
Confession time: my household has two cars—one with leather and one with “leather.” The first feels great, but the second… well, let’s just say it’s not fooling anyone. That might change soon, because Hyundai is working with a startup on plant-based leather that smells like the real thing, and it’s surprisingly convincing.
Image Credits:Uncaged Innovations
Why Fake Leather Usually Falls Short
Most synthetic leathers are made with plastics derived from fossil fuels. They may look smooth, but the texture and smell rarely compare to real leather. Worse, they come with a heavy environmental cost.
That’s where Uncaged Innovations, a materials startup, comes in. Instead of using plastics, it crafts leather alternatives from grains like wheat, soy, and corn. The samples mimic a range of real animal leathers—and yes, one even smelled like it had come straight from a tannery.
Hyundai’s Next Big Material Shift
Uncaged Innovations revealed it is now collaborating with Hyundai’s Cradle division to adapt this plant-based leather for cars and trucks. The focus is on durability, authentic feel, and sustainability.
According to the startup, its leather alternative carries a 95% lower carbon footprint compared to animal leather. That makes it both animal-friendly and climate-friendly, aligning perfectly with Hyundai’s push for greener mobility solutions.
A Growing Trend in the Auto Industry
“Leather is not just leather,” Uncaged co-founder and CEO Stephanie Downs told TechCrunch. “There are thousands of variations—different animals, thicknesses, tanning methods. We had to develop something customizable for different applications.”
Hyundai isn’t the only automaker interested. Just last month, Uncaged also announced a partnership with Jaguar Land Rover. The race to replace leather with eco-friendly alternatives is clearly heating up.
Leather Alternatives: A Century-Old Idea, Reinvented
Automakers have experimented with fake leather for over a century. Even the Ford Model T in 1913 used an early version of faux leather. But while alternatives have improved over time, most still lack the authentic touch and scent.
What makes Uncaged’s approach stand out is that it finally addresses the emotional side of leather—feel and smell—while cutting the environmental cost. For drivers who care about both luxury and sustainability, that’s a game-changer.
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