Unveiled at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, the new electric GLC marks a symbolic milestone for Mercedes-Benz. The German manufacturer is introducing, for the first time, an interior entirely made without animal-derived materials. This approach is part of a broader strategy combining electrification, materials innovation, and a response to growing societal expectations regarding ethics and sustainability. At the heart of this project is a material called ARTICO. Already featured in some of the brand's trim levels, it is used here systematically as an alternative to leather. Its appearance and feel are designed to closely resemble traditional leather, without the use of any animal products or fibers. Mercedes-Benz uses it primarily for the seats, steering wheel, and all surfaces frequently touched by occupants. However, the vegan approach is not limited to the most visible elements. The door panels, pillars, headliner, and carpets utilize textiles and microfibers certified free of animal components. The floor and trunk mats are made from wool-free textiles and incorporate recycled materials. Even more technical elements, such as certain binders, coatings, and additives, have been reformulated using synthetic polymers to exclude any animal-derived substances. According to the manufacturer, no glues, dyes, or processing substances of animal origin are used in the production of this interior.
An official certification issued by the Vegan Society
To ensure the credibility of this approach, Mercedes-Benz worked with the Vegan Society, a leading international organization for vegan certification. The Society audited all the so-called "soft-touch" materials used in the interior, examining both the finished components and the manufacturing processes. The goal was to eliminate not only obvious animal-derived materials, but also additives, coatings, or processing aids that might contain traces of animal origin. When existing components did not meet these requirements, engineers and suppliers revised their designs. Following these adjustments, a comprehensive independent audit was conducted. Approximately one hundred components from various suppliers were analyzed. To obtain certification, the materials had to be free of any animal products or derivatives, not be tested on animals, and minimize the risk of cross-contamination during production.
This validation allows the electric GLC to display the official Vegan Society label
This will appear in the online configurator when customers select the Vegan Package offered on this model. Mercedes-Benz thus becomes the first automaker to market a vehicle interior certified by this independent organization. With this electric GLC equipped with EQ technology, the brand aims to combine electromobility with new standards in interior design. The availability of these vegan finishes is announced for the US market starting in the second half of 2026. This launch could foreshadow a gradual rollout of these materials to other models in the range, as expectations for sustainability and traceability gain traction in the automotive industry.
