The latest edition of Lineapelle, the number 99, held from 22 to 24 February 2022, had an undisputed protagonist: the future. A future to be imagined, but possible, realistic and the result of green visions of the highest-profile. Like the one, we tell you about in this article, which involves a new definition of mobility, a South Korean car manufacturer, UNIC – Italian Tanneries and, of course, Lineapelle
People entering the stand walked around it like a small spaceship. Or rather, as if they were looking at and touching an artefact straight from the future. They call them ‘concept cars’ and, in effect, they express this exact dimension to the eye. They are the prototype of an idea, of a concept. In this case: of green visions that, on the occasion of Lineapelle 99 (Fieramilano Rho, 22/24 February), have, for the past two years, brought together around a table the fair itself, UNIC – Concerie Italiane, Hyundai Transys (global producer of car parts and subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group) and a group of manufacturing partners. All united to achieve a shared goal: exploring the new frontier of regenerative mobility.
Green visions for a regenerative mobility idea
The project is called Lineapelle x Hyundai Transys, and it arrived at Lineapelle with its load of innovation and (realistic) futuristics. Then, a concept car is characterised by being electric, self-driving and with an interior (and relative design accessories) made of sustainable leather and innovative materials derived from upcycling activities. Payoff: Shift to Regenerative Mobility. “This project makes a new vision of the future tangible,” commented the Consul General of the Republic of Korea, Kang Hyung Sik. Regenerative mobility does not only mean vehicles with a sustainable impact in terms of fuel consumption but also the use of environmentally friendly materials.
Futuristic, but not too much
“This collaboration stems from the commitment that UNIC – Concerie Italiane and Lineapelle have put into sustainability for years,” comments Fulvia Bacchi, CEO of Lineapelle. We have travelled around the world and even arrived in Korea, where we had the opportunity to meet Hyundai Transys to build a visionary, futuristic project together. An utterly innovative seat that uses Italian leather and recovered leather cuts”.
Be sustainable together
Hyundai Transys and Lineapelle collaborated on using recycled leather and other sustainable materials developed through a partnership with the Dani tanning group, Manifattura di Domodossola, Dyloan and Korean suppliers Dual and ATKO Planning. The project started in March 2020 and continued for two years thanks to the synergy between the companies involved, which worked by communicating exclusively online under the slogan Be sustainable together. It was a great challenge,” says Silvia Polli of Manifattura di Domodossola, “and we are delighted with this result. What was achieved for the automotive sector can be a source of inspiration for many other fields. New paths and interesting collaborations have opened up for us.
From Seoul to Milan
Shift to Regenerative Mobility links Seoul and Milan through colours and patterns, in particular by highlighting two primary shades. “The so-called Seoul Grey, which recalls the metropolitan landscape of the Korean capital and the granite peaks. And Milan Brown, which refers to classical buildings. In addition, the lights of the city of Seoul are transformed into pixels, while Milan’s imposing Gothic cathedral can be found in the striped pattern”.
A visionary session
The leathers were used in the seat sections where more strength is required, while the woven parts were used on the back of the backrest. The leather scraps were milled and regenerated in the form of yarn. Then, combined with other yarns made from recycled PET bottles, they were transformed into a unique upcycling fabric for the floor area.
Milan Design Week
After Lineapelle 99, the seating concept for regenerative mobility by Lineapelle x Hyundai Transys will be featured at Spazio Lineapelle in Milan (Palazzo Gorani) from April to June. And it will remain on display during the Milan Design Week next June.
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