The Mercedes CONCEPT AMG GT XX is a pioneering technology programme from Mercedes that explores new technology
With three axial flux motors and a high-performance battery developed from scratch, the brand from Affalterbach presents a revolutionary drive concept that enables a whole new dimension of performance. It includes an abundance of technical solutions earmarked for use in the subsequent series-production models based on the high performance AMG Electric Architecture.
However, one of the surprising attributes of this concept car is the use of racing car tyre rubber used to create the “leather” used in the seats.
The Innovera fabric is a bio-designed alternative leather created by Modern Meadow from car tyre rubber. The aim is to further develop Innovera for series production and set new standards in vehicle interiors.
For the Concept AMG GT XX, one scrap tyre provides the basis for approximately four square metres of the new, bio-designed material.
The black seat pads of the bucket seats are covered with the Nappa-look variant. The leather alternative is breathable and waterproof, as well as lighter than traditional materials. Its maximum tensile strength is also twice as high as that of traditional materials, making it very robust and high performing.
Because it replicates the key properties of the collagens found in leather, the material offers a level of design freedom equivalent to that of traditional leather and can be produced with different finishes such as nubuck, full grain or suede, and in various colours and haptics.
“At Modern Meadow, we are redefining automotive interior possibilities with Innovera, that brings beauty, performance and sustainability into perfect balance,” said Modern Meadow CEO David Williamson. “In our development partnership with Mercedes-Benz, we have used Innovera to create a new luxury leather alternative without sacrificing aesthetics, versatility and texture. It looks and feels as good as it performs.”
