Customized Autonomous, EVs Provide Interior Opportunities

High-end materials specialist Alcantara SpA aims to continue its rapid growth spurt by expanding into new niches, including next-generation autonomous and electric vehicles.

Historically, the Italian supplier has focused on supercars and luxury models with its self-named leather substitute. But the company also has scored wins in recent years with mainstream models from Dodge, Nissan and Subaru as customers demand greater customization and comfort.

Alcantara, which enjoyed a nearly threefold spike in sales from €64 million in 2009 to €187 million in 2016, expects the trend to continue as people spend more time in their cars.

Passengers want to enjoy the experience, says CEO Andrea Boragno. This is especially true with the emergence of automated driving systems and high-end EVs that serve as a lifestyle brand and extension of a person’s home, Boragno says, noting that Alcantara has content on Tesla EVs.

The company claims its material is 50% lighter than leather and provides superior durability, grip and breathability. Boragno also touts the material’s environmental benefits. Alcantara began using raw materials from renewable sources in 2016 and by 2020 aims to switch completely to bio-based materials, such as cane waste, rice straw, wood derivatives and other feedstocks outside of the food chain.

Automotive systems account for nearly 80% of Alcantara’s business. In addition to seats, the material is used in headliners, pillars, gear shifters, the steering wheel, door panels, the trunk and even select exterior pieces, according to Boragno.

Alcantara also is adding applications in the fashion and consumer electronics applications—including a stylish case for a top-end Microsoft laptop. To keep pace, the company is doubling its production capacity at its plant in Italy by 2022.