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The Best Vegan-Friendly Cars to Buy in the UK

Is there such a thing as a vegan-friendly car? As manufacturers seek to dial up their sustainability efforts, many cars are now featuring more resourceful materials for upholstery and committing to the electric revolution.

The Best Vegan-Friendly Cars to Buy in the UK

In recent years, veganism has expanded from dietary choices to all aspects of life, including the cars we drive. For UK drivers seeking vehicles that align with their ethical values, choosing a vegan-friendly car means looking for animal-free interiors, sustainable materials, and environmentally conscious manufacturing.

The UK car market has evolved significantly to cater to these preferences, with electric and hybrid vehicles taking the lead in vegan-friendly options. Here's a look at some of the best vegan-friendly cars available in the UK today that still combine style, performance, and sustainability.

Porsche Taycan

 In 2020, the Porsche Taycan transitioned to include vegan-friendly interior alternatives. The Taycan blends cutting-edge technology with an eco-friendly design, offering both a premium and sustainable driving experience. Why it’s vegan-friendly:

  • High-quality, animal-free leather alternatives.
  • Fully electric, with up to 367 miles of range per charge.
  • Incorporation of Econyl, a material made from recycled waste, in the floor mats and flooring.
  • The Taycan also has advanced features such as regenerative braking to improve energy efficiency.
Porsche Taycan
Mercedes-Benz EQE

Mercedes-Benz EQE

This stylish saloon is a fantastic example of Mercedes-Benz's commitment to a greener, more ethical future, aligning perfectly to vegan principles. The Mercedes-Benz EQE is luxurious both inside and out that prioritises comfort and cutting-edge design.

 

Why it’s vegan-friendly:

  • Vegan leather upholstery options available.
  • All-electric with up to 300 miles of range per charge.
  • Sustainably sourced wood and recycled fabrics are reflective of the brand’s dedication to high-quality craftsmanship.

Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 is a sleek electric crossover that has captured attention for its futuristic design and spacious interior. In the UK, Kia offers vegan-friendly options for the EV6, including synthetic leather, sustainable suede and materials derived from recycled plastics and durable materials.

Why it’s vegan-friendly:

  • Vegan upholstery options, including synthetic leather.
  • Up to 361 miles of range per charge.
  • Manufactured with eco-conscious materials.
  • The EV6 combines practicality, comfort, and ethical production, making it an excellent choice for families.
Kia EV6
SMART #1

SMART #1

Designed with sustainability in mind, the Smart #1 is a sleek, fully electric vehicle that reflects the future of eco-friendly driving. Its interior is crafted using vegan-friendly materials, offering a modern, animal-free experience without compromising on style or comfort.

Why it’s vegan-friendly:

  • Vegan-friendly upholstery options available.
  • Fully electric, with up to 373 miles of range.
  • The Smart #1’s compact design and advanced technology make it a perfect choice for drivers who care about both ethics and style.

Volkswagen ID.4

 The Volkswagen ID.4 is an excellent choice for vegan drivers seeking a fully electric SUV with sustainable features. The vehicle has animal-free materials, an impressive electric range, and a modern design that supports a greener future.

Why it’s vegan-friendly:

  • Interior upholstery made from synthetic materials like fabric and artificial leather.
  • Dashboard, door panels, and steering wheel crafted from non-animal-based materials.
  • Fully electric, with a range of up to 328 miles.
  • The ID.4 is perfect for drivers seeking an accessible entry point into the vegan-friendly EV market.
Volkswagen ID.4
Audi Q4 E-Tron

Audi Q4 e-tron

The Audi Q4 e-tron is a luxurious all-electric SUV that aligns with vegan values. Audi offers an interior featuring synthetic leather and recycled materials, catering to UK drivers looking for a premium yet ethical option.

Why it’s vegan-friendly:

  • Upholstery made from synthetic leather ensures no animal-based materials are used in the cabin. Fully electric, with a range of up to 342 miles.
  • Focus on sustainable production practices.
  • For those seeking a blend of luxury and ethics, the Q4 e-tron delivers both.

What Makes a Car Vegan-Friendly?

To be considered vegan-friendly, a car must:

  • Avoid animal-free materials: Leather, wool, and other animal products are replaced with synthetic or plant-based alternatives.
  • Emphasise sustainability: Many vegan-friendly cars also incorporate recycled materials, bio-based plastics, and eco-friendly manufacturing.
  • Minimise environmental impact: Electric or hybrid drivetrains align with veganism’s broader ethos of reducing harm to the planet.

Key considerations when buying a vegan-friendly car in the UK

  • Interior options: Always check the trim levels to ensure no animal-free materials are used.
  • Sustainability: Look for manufacturers committed to eco-friendly production.
  • Range and charging infrastructure: With the UK expanding its EV charging network, with over 18,000 new charge points added during 2024, range anxiety is becoming less of a concern.

The UK’s car market offers a growing number of vegan-friendly options, ensuring drivers can align their transportation choices with their values.

By choosing one of these vegan-friendly vehicles, you’re not only reducing your impact on the environment but also supporting ethical practices in the automotive industry. With more manufacturers embracing sustainability, the future of vegan driving in the UK looks bright - and greener than ever.

For more information about going electric, our electric hub is packed full of helpful insight.

 

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Representative finance example: Personal Contract Purchase (PCP)

Representative APR%
9.90% APR 
First Payment
£249.71
46 Monthly
payments of
£249.71
Optional final
payment
£9,090.00
On the road
price
£20,000.00
Term of
agreement
48 months
Customer deposit
£4,000.00
Amount of credit
£16,000.00
Cost of credit
£4,826.37
Annual mileage
5,000
Excess mileage
8.4p
Total amount
payable
£24,836.37
Fixed rate of
interest
9.90%