- In March 2024, Valeo, a global leader in mobility technologies, deepened its collaboration with Google Cloud to integrate generative AI tools across its vehicle design and software development workflows. This expanded partnership focuses on enhancing the design of interior trim components through predictive modeling, rapid prototyping, and automated code generation, ultimately driving greater efficiency, innovation, and productivity. Valeo gains early access to Google Cloud’s latest AI technologies, enabling faster deployment and deeper integration of AI across its engineering, quality assurance, and customer service operations. The initiative reflects Valeo’s commitment to digital transformation in the automotive sector
- In July 2024, FORVIA and BYD expanded their long-standing strategic partnership into Europe, marking a significant milestone with the launch of their first joint project in Hungary. Building on a successful collaboration in Asia—where they’ve established seven plants and an R&D center—the two companies aim to co-develop innovative automotive interior solutions tailored for the electric vehicle (EV) market. FORVIA brings its deep expertise in seating, interiors, and electronics, while BYD contributes its rapidly growing EV manufacturing capabilities. This move strengthens both companies’ positions in the European mobility landscape and supports BYD’s regional manufacturing ambitions
- In October 2022, Lear Corporation, a leading U.S.-based automotive technology company, announced the upcoming launch of its ReNewKnit™ sueded material, a premium, fully recyclable textile designed for seating and door panel applications. Scheduled for rollout with a global automaker in 2024, ReNewKnit™ is crafted entirely from recycled plastic bottles and manufactured using 100% renewable electricity. Developed by Guilford Performance Textiles by Lear, the material features a foam-free, recycled fleece backing, reducing water and energy consumption during production. This initiative reinforces Lear’s dedication to sustainability and advancing a circular economy in automotive design
- In March 2023, BASF introduced a new variant of its Ultramid® Deep Gloss polyamide, engineered to deliver exceptional gloss and durability for automotive interior components. This innovative material made its debut on the garnish of Toyota’s latest Prius, showcasing its ability to combine high-gloss aesthetics with chemical, scratch, UV, and abrasion resistance—all without the need for additional coating. Utilizing mold-in-color technology, the solution eliminates solvent-based painting, improving production efficiency and sustainability. The material’s high melt flowability also enables intricate designs, offering automakers greater design freedom and cost-effective manufacturing
- In January 2023, Grupo Antolin introduced a new line of sustainable decorative surfaces for automotive interiors, reinforcing its commitment to eco-friendly innovation. These materials incorporate recycled polyester fibers and bio-based polyurethane resins derived from organic waste and renewable feedstocks such as crop residues. The resulting headliner substrate offers the same mechanical and aesthetic properties as conventional materials while significantly reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil-based inputs. This initiative aligns with the automotive industry's broader shift toward sustainable mobility and supports Grupo Antolin’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality through responsible sourcing and renewable energy use
