Alcantara - What Is It?
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 Thom Cannell |
Senior Editor
Michigan Bureau
THE AUTO CHANNEL
Exotics—Ferrari, Lamborghini and McLaren demand it, as do luxury vehicles like Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW and Lincoln, as well as consumer staples from Dodge and Ford. All promote “Alcantara” to amplify their luxury and refinement—but what is Alcantara? We traveled to Nera Montoro (Terni), Italy, home of Alcantara S.p.A. to investigate.
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Fundamentally, Alcantara is a technical material, a class of man-made polyester-based materials. Unlike some others, the company is focused on using recycled and bio-based polymers as part of its sustainability efforts; the company has been Carbon Neutral since 2009.
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Alcantara's creation begins with raw pellets, which may include recycled or bio-based polyesters. Filaments are extruded, washed, and gathered into sheets.
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After water extraction the base material is gathered into bails.
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After separation, base material begins an extensive process that takes multiple “sheets” of material—with thicknesses gauged to end use—and begins to reduce that thickness in a patented method.
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A series of needles with microscopic hooks intertwines individual fibers into a material mat, ultimately producing a roll of Alcantara material.
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Alcantara is typically white, gray or black, but may be dyed into any color desired by auto manufacturer, fashion designer or industrial designer and, with a series of partners, the material may be modified by cutting, on-and off-site embroidery and material adhesion.
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Alcantara is often modified using colorful inserts, based on proprietary designs.
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In automobiles, black or gray Alcantara often adorns door panels and headliners of premium vehicles.
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Alcantara-wrapped steering wheels, with contrast stitching and equally novel bolsters become design elements.
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Not all manufacturers specify black Alcantara, Dodge has used color, as well as embroidery for effect.
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With durability and wear resistance similar to alternative premium automotive-grade media, Alcantara can be used to cover entire seats, using speed stitching patterns for effect.
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Next time someone mentions Alcantara, or questions what it is, you’ll know the whole story, at least the automotive side. Alcantara is also used in fashion, high-tech tablet coverings, headphones, sunglasses, and interior design. CLICK HERE for more information