Three out of four motorists want to see animal products removed from cars says a new report published by The Vegan Society.
While many vehicles no longer have leather seats, it may surprise you to know that there are many other elements which use animal products as part of the process. For example did you know that the media displays on the dashboard are built using liquid crystals that are sometimes derived from animal cholesterol. In addition, sheep fat (tallow) is often used to toughen the rubber in a car’s tyres. Elsewhere a car’s paintwork may contain pigments from an animal derived source, and even the steel in your car may be lubricated with animal fat.
But it is the use of animal skins for a leather interior which is the most commonly known aspect, and 55 per cent of those surveyed said they would prefer that manufacturers don’t use leather. A large percentage (77%) said they would prefer plant-based leather to be used instead.
“While the concept of a vegan car has been of interest to drivers and car manufacturers for a number of years, it’s highly encouraging to see how many motorists would opt for a vegan model,” said Louisiann Waring, Senior Insight and Policy Officer at The Vegan Society.
“The automotive industry is taking steps in a more ethical direction, but products from animals can still feature throughout the manufacturing process.
“We wanted to understand the public’s perception of how animals are used in the industry, and it’s pleasing to see that 70% of consumers are revving up to see fully vegan cars hit the road in the future.”
Many motor manufacturers have already committed to be more vegan-friendly. Volvo will be leather free by 2030, while Tesla faced a barrage of criticism for their eco-friendly credentials, whilst at the same time offering leather interiors - they no longer have leather interiors. Land Rover are another company to offer vegan leather as an option.