Against this backdrop, a major industry milestone has been achieved.
The entire cabin of the SAIC AUDI E7X has successfully obtained dual certification under OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 and OEKO-TEX® LEATHER STANDARD, making it the world's first vehicle model to achieve dual OEKO-TEX® certification for its complete cabin.
This achievement extends beyond individual components. Every relevant interior material that occupants may come into contact with has been assessed according to stringent OEKO-TEX® requirements. Furthermore, the certified materials meet the requirements of OEKO-TEX® Product Class I, the most stringent product category within the OEKO-TEX® system, commonly associated with products for babies and young children.
For the automotive industry, this represents a new benchmark in material safety, transparency and responsible product development.
A Global Collaboration Driving Innovation
Behind every industry first lies a strong partnership.
This milestone was achieved through close collaboration between SAIC AUDI, OEKO-TEX® and the combined efforts of TESTEX teams in China and Switzerland. The project required extensive textile testing, technical assessments and certification expertise across a diverse range of automotive textiles and interior components.
Leveraging the strengths of both local and international teams, TESTEX supported the evaluation process from material testing to certification, ensuring that all relevant requirements were met consistently and reliably.
The successful certification demonstrates how global cooperation and scientific expertise can help manufacturers achieve ambitious sustainability and product safety goals.
From Seats to Stitching: A Fully Certified Vehicle Cabin
Unlike traditional certification approaches that focus on individual materials or components, the SAIC AUDI E7X project took a holistic view of the vehicle interior.
The certification covers all major components that occupants may interact with during everyday use, including:
- Seats
- Steering wheel
- Instrument panel
- Centre console
- Sun visors
- Genuine wood trim
- Interior carpets
- Floor mats
- Seat belts
- Buttons and switches
- Decorative stitching
Each component underwent comprehensive textile testing and harmful substance assessments according to the requirements of OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 and OEKO-TEX® LEATHER STANDARD.
This approach provides a new level of assurance that the vehicle interior supports a healthier environment for drivers and passengers alike.
Why Automotive Interior Certification Matters
Consumers spend significant amounts of time inside vehicles, often in enclosed environments and in close contact with automotive interior fabrics and materials.
As awareness of health and environmental concerns continues to grow, expectations regarding product safety are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Vehicle manufacturers are therefore challenged to provide greater transparency regarding the materials used throughout their products.
Third-party textile certification offers a credible and independent way to demonstrate compliance with recognised safety standards.
By achieving dual certification under OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 and OEKO-TEX® LEATHER STANDARD, the SAIC AUDI E7X demonstrates that its interior materials have been assessed against rigorous criteria covering a wide range of potentially harmful substances.
For consumers, this provides confidence. For brands, it strengthens trust and demonstrates a commitment to responsible manufacturing.
Automotive Textiles Are Shaping the Future of Mobility
Automotive textiles play a critical role in the overall vehicle experience. Beyond aesthetics and comfort, they contribute to durability, functionality, safety and environmental performance.
Today, automotive manufacturers are increasingly seeking innovative automotive interior fabrics that not only deliver premium performance but also align with growing sustainability expectations.
As a result, textile testing and certification are becoming strategic tools for manufacturers seeking to differentiate their products and respond to evolving market demands.
The achievement of the SAIC AUDI E7X highlights a broader trend across the automotive sector: the move towards safer, more transparent and more sustainable materials throughout the vehicle lifecycle.
TESTEX: Advancing Safer Automotive Materials Worldwide
As the official OEKO-TEX® representative in China and a globally recognised testing and certification organisation headquartered in Switzerland, TESTEX supports brands, manufacturers and suppliers in verifying the safety, quality and sustainability of textile and related materials.
With accredited laboratories, specialised expertise and a strong international presence, TESTEX helps companies navigate increasingly complex regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.
The world's first dual-certified vehicle cabin demonstrates the value of combining scientific expertise, robust textile testing methodologies and internationally recognised certification standards.
Through collaboration with industry partners, TESTEX continues to support innovation in automotive textiles, helping manufacturers develop safer products while strengthening transparency and consumer trust.
Setting a New Benchmark for the Industry
The successful certification of the SAIC AUDI E7X is more than an individual achievement. It signals a new direction for the automotive industry.
As expectations around material safety, sustainability and transparency continue to rise, comprehensive textile certification will play an increasingly important role in product development and brand differentiation.
TESTEX is proud to have contributed to this world-first milestone alongside OEKO-TEX®, SAIC AUDI and the dedicated teams in China and Switzerland.
Together, we are helping to shape the future of safer automotive interiors and more sustainable mobility through science, innovation and trusted certification.
