Volkswagen, the world-renowned German automobile manufacturer, is on the cusp of revolutionizing its faux leather production with a sustainable alternative – industrial hemp. The second-largest carmaker globally, in terms of vehicle sales, has teamed up with German start-up Revoltech GmbH to research and develop hemp-based materials for use in its models from 2028 onwards.
This collaboration reflects Volkswagen’s commitment to sustainability, a core principle of its ACCELERATE strategy. Andreas Walingen, head of strategy at Volkswagen, emphasizes the company’s focus on aligning customer desires, sustainability requirements, and corporate interests.
The groundbreaking material, dubbed LOVR – an acronym for “leather-free, oil-free, vegan, and residue-based” – is entirely biological, derived from industrial hemp cultivated for the food industry. This 100% bio-based material utilizes residues from the regional hemp industry, ensuring minimal waste. Production can occur on existing industrial facilities, with the material being recyclable or compostable at the end of its lifespan.
Lucas Fuhrmann, CEO and co-founder of Revoltech GmbH, highlights LOVR’s scalability and groundbreaking potential for sustainable practices in the automotive sector. Initial presentations of the innovative material have already received positive responses and feedback from customers.
Volkswagen’s commitment to exploring hemp-based materials echoes a growing trend in the automotive industry. BMW’s i3 electric cars feature door panels crafted from a blend of hemp, natural fibers, and bio-based plastic. Ford has also been experimenting with sustainable materials, including hemp, notably incorporating natural fiber composites into the interior of its Ford Focus model. Mercedes-Benz, too, has embraced hemp-based materials in various parts of its vehicle interiors.
Hemp’s versatility stems from its ability to blend with various polymers, making it suitable for diverse exterior applications. Incorporated into composites, hemp fibers enhance the stiffness and strength of structural car components, thereby improving crash performance and overall structural integrity. Hemp fibers are also known for their excellent insulation properties, making them ideal for panels and materials requiring soundproofing and thermal insulation.
The use of industrial hemp extends beyond the automotive industry. Hempcrete, a blend of the inner core of industrial hemp with a lime-based binder, is gaining traction as an eco-friendly building material. Its climate-friendly and fireproof properties make it a compelling alternative. Notably, hempcrete is considered a “carbon-negative” material, as its production absorbs more carbon pollution from the air than it releases.
Volkswagen’s decision to explore hemp’s potential comes at a pivotal moment in Germany, marked by significant changes in cannabis and hemp legislation. The German government is actively promoting the hemp industry. In July, the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture unveiled a draft bill designed to modernize industrial hemp cultivation and handling policies. The proposed Industrial Hemp Liberalization Act (NLG) aims to eliminate legal uncertainties and open new avenues for the industrial hemp sector.
In May, Cem Özdemir, Minister of Food and Agriculture, confirmed the removal of the controversial “intoxication clause,” which previously suggested the possibility of getting high from consuming large quantities of industrial hemp. Germany’s overall approach to cannabis has also undergone significant reform, with partial legalization taking effect on April 1, allowing adults over 18 to possess up to 25 grams of dried cannabis and cultivate up to three plants at home. The legalization of cannabis clubs on July 1, 2024, marked another step in the country’s evolving cannabis landscape.
These changes have created a fertile environment for the growth of the hemp industry, with the projected global market value for industrial hemp reaching $14 billion by 2028. This presents a significant investment opportunity for companies like Volkswagen, who are actively seeking sustainable alternatives for their products.
