The Automotive Synthetic Leather market industry is projected to grow from USD 115 Million by 2032, exhibiting a compound yearly growth rate (CAGR) of 8.20% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032). Increased demand for sustainable and cruelty-free materials in the automotive industry and the pursuit of enhanced durability and resistance to wear and tear are the key market drivers enhancing market growth.
Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Market CAGR for automotive synthetic leather is being driven by the rising demand for the sustainable and cruelty-free materials in the automotive industry. As environmental consciousness intensifies globally, consumers and automotive manufacturers alike are increasingly prioritizing ethical and sustainable choices. Traditional leather production involves significant environmental impact and ethical concerns related to animal welfare, prompting a shift towards synthetic alternatives. This shift aligns with the industry's commitment to reducing its ecological footprint and addressing ethical concerns associated with leather production.
The automotive sector's commitment to sustainability further drives the adoption of synthetic leather, which boasts advantages such as reduced environmental impact, lower energy consumption in manufacturing, and decreased reliance on resource-intensive processes associated with traditional leather production. Additionally, synthetic leather's consistent quality and customization options appeal to automakers seeking versatile and innovative interior design solutions. This shift towards sustainability extends beyond consumer appeal, with stringent regulatory measures encouraging automakers to adopt environmentally responsible materials, further catalyzing the demand for synthetic leather. Moreover, the versatility of synthetic leather in terms of color, texture, and design allows automakers to meet diverse aesthetic preferences while maintaining a commitment to cruelty-free practices. The Automotive Synthetic Leather market's growth is also fueled by the material's resistance to wear and tear, UV stability, and ease of maintenance, ensuring longevity and performance in vehicle interiors. This aligns with the automotive industry's goal of producing vehicles with durable and long-lasting components, contributing to a reduction in overall waste.
Collaborations between synthetic leather manufacturers and automotive giants underscore the industry's recognition of the market potential for cruelty-free materials. As these collaborations lead to technological advancements, innovations, and economies of scale, the cost-effectiveness of synthetic leather production is improving, making it a viable and attractive option for automakers across various market segments. Furthermore, the rise of electric vehicles, which often prioritize sustainable and eco-friendly features, has accelerated the adoption of synthetic leather in the automotive sector. The global nature of the automotive industry amplifies the impact of sustainability trends on the demand for synthetic leather, as regulations, consumer preferences, and ethical considerations resonate worldwide. The dynamic landscape of consumer behavior, with an increasing number of environmentally conscious buyers, underscores the urgency for automakers to integrate sustainable materials like synthetic leather into their offerings. In essence, the convergence of ethical, environmental, and regulatory factors positions Automotive Synthetic Leather as a cornerstone in shaping the future of sustainable and cruelty-free practices within the automotive industry. Thus driving the Automotive Synthetic Leather market revenue.
The Automotive Synthetic Leather Market segmentation, based on type, includes PU, PVC, and Bio-Based. The PU segment dominated the market, accounting for the largest market revenue due to its exceptional versatility, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability features. PU synthetic leather offers a wide range of design possibilities, replicating the luxurious look and feel of genuine leather while providing a more affordable alternative. Its adaptability to various color treatments, textures, and finishes enables automakers to achieve diverse aesthetic preferences and brand-specific designs. PU synthetic leather is also known for its durability, resilience and resistance to wear and tear, making it well-suited for the demanding automotive environment. Additionally, the production of PU synthetic leather involves fewer environmental impacts compared to traditional leather, aligning with the automotive industry's increasing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly materials. Bio-based synthetic leather is expected to be the fastest-growing segment due to rising environmental awareness and government regulations.
Figure 1: Automotive Synthetic Leather Market, by Type, 2022 & 2032 (USD Billion)
Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The Automotive Synthetic Leather Market segmentation, based on distribution channels, includes OEM and Aftermarket. The OEM category dominates the market due to its integral role in supplying materials directly to vehicle manufacturers. Automotive OEMs prefer synthetic leather for its versatility, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, aligning with their goals of producing high-quality, visually appealing, and environmentally conscious vehicles. The OEMs often establish long-term contracts with synthetic leather suppliers to ensure a stable and consistent supply chain for their production needs. This direct relationship allows OEMs to have greater control over the customization of synthetic leather materials, meeting specific design requirements and aesthetic preferences for various vehicle models. As consumer demand for cruelty-free and sustainable materials grows, the OEM channel becomes a primary driver in shaping the widespread adoption of automotive synthetic leather in the manufacturing of new vehicles.
By region, the study gives market insights into the North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. The North American Automotive Synthetic Leather market area will dominate this market due to a combination of robust demand from the region's well-established automotive industry and a growing preference for sustainable and cruelty-free materials and the region's stringent environmental regulations, coupled with the automotive sector's commitment to meeting these standards.
Further, the prime countries studied in the market report are The US, Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, Japan, China, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.
Figure 2: AUTOMOTIVE SYNTHETIC LEATHER MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (USD Billion)
Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Europe's Automotive Synthetic Leather market accounts for the second-largest market share due to the region's strong emphasis on sustainability, coupled with stringent regulations promoting eco-friendly materials in the automotive industry. Further, the German Automotive Synthetic Leather market held the largest market revenue share, and the UK Automotive Synthetic Leather market was the fastest-growing market in the European region.
The Asia-Pacific Automotive Synthetic Leather Market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from the year 2023 to 2032. This is due to the region's burgeoning automotive manufacturing sector, coupled with a growing consumer awareness and preference for sustainable and cruelty-free materials in vehicle interiors. Moreover, China’s Automotive Synthetic Leather market held the largest market share, and the Indian Automotive Synthetic Leather market was the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.
Leading market players are investing heavily in the research and development in order to expand their product lines, which will help the Automotive Synthetic Leather market grow even more. Market players are also undertaking a variety of strategic activities to spread their global footprint, with important market developments including mergers and acquisitions, new product launches, contractual agreements, higher investments, and collaboration with other organizations. To spread and survive in a more competitive and rising market climate, the Automotive Synthetic Leather industry must offer cost-effective items.
Manufacturing locally to minimize the operational costs is one of the key business tactics used by the manufacturers in the global Automotive Synthetic Leather industry to benefit the clients and increase the market sector. In recent years, the Automotive Synthetic Leather industry has offered some of the most significant advantages to the automotive industry. Major players in the Automotive Synthetic Leather market, including Mayur Uniquoters Limited, San Fang Chemical Industry Co. Ltd, Alfatex Italia SRL, Yantai Wanhua Artificial Leather Group Co. Ltd, Nan Ya Plastics Corporation, Kuraray Co. Ltd, Zhejiang Hexin Industry Group Co. Ltd., Toray Group, H.R. Polycoats Pvt. Ltd, Filwel Co. Ltd, and others are trying to increase market demand by investing in the research and development operations.
BASF SE, headquartered in Ludwigshafen, Germany, is one of the world's largest chemical companies and a leading provider of a broad range of products and solutions. Founded in 1865, BASF operates in various segments, including chemicals, materials, industrial solutions, surface technologies, nutrition and care, and agricultural solutions. The company is known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, consistently developing products that address global challenges such as climate change, resource efficiency, and food security. In October 2023, BASF SE and Teijin Limited announced a partnership in order to develop and market a new generation of high-performance synthetic leather for automotive applications. This partnership leverages BASF's expertise in advanced materials and Teijin's experience in synthetic leather production to create innovative solutions for car manufacturers.
Hyundai Motor Company, the South Korean multinational automotive manufacturer is one of the largest and most prominent players in the global automotive industry. Established in 1967, Hyundai has evolved into a powerhouse, producing a diverse range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles. Known for its commitment to innovation and quality, Hyundai has gained international recognition for its advancements in technology, design, and fuel efficiency. In September 2023, Hyundai Motor Company and Kolon Industries Inc. signed a strategic partnership to develop and manufacture sustainable and eco-friendly synthetic leather for Hyundai's future electric vehicle models. This partnership aims to reduce the environmental impact of car manufacturing and meet the growing demand for sustainable materials.
July 2023: The Japanese automotive supplier Yazaki Corporation acquired a majority stake in the US-based synthetic leather startup EcoLeather Inc., a developer of bio-based and sustainable synthetic leather materials. This acquisition provides Yazaki access to cutting-edge sustainable technology and strengthens its position in the eco-friendly automotive materials market.
June 2023: The Chinese automotive interior supplier Lingyun Industrial Group acquired the European synthetic leather manufacturer Fein Polymers GmbH. This acquisition expands Lingyun's global reach and strengthens its presence in the European automotive market.
May 2023: The US-based private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice acquired a controlling stake in the global leader in synthetic leather production, Kuraray Noritake Co., Ltd. This acquisition is expected to accelerate Kuraray Noritake's growth and expansion into new markets.
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