Ms. Mauri, in the “Let’s make sense” video, you discussed the apparent contradiction between more sustainable materials and premium quality standards with fashion designer Stella McCartney. What did you take away from the conversation?

Stella and I understand greater sustainability and premium quality in the same way—as two pillars underpinning our work that are in no way contradictory. Instead, I see helping to protect the planet as part of a continuum with our distinctive approach to quality. It adds value to design and is integral to the Audi aesthetics and code of ethics.

So how do you incorporate greater sustainability into design? Can you give us some insight into your creative process?

Initially, when defining our color and material concept, we research overarching trends as well as collect ideas and insights on mood boards. The fashion industry is a major source of inspiration. Next, we translate our concept into a precise Audi color and material palette that is fine-tuned over the course of a four-year development process until we go to market. In terms of time frames, fashion is definitely more agile and flexible than the automotive industry.

So you literally need to be progressive?

The challenge for us is not only to investigate and understand what our customers want but also anticipate their desires. Greater sustainability is something that they have directly requested. The fact that we share this philosophy with them is something I really appreciate.

Does greater sustainability entail compromising on quality or aesthetics? What are the constraints?
No, if we follow the process, push ourselves and refuse to compromise, the final product will be better for it. Greater sustainability is a major challenge that we’re very happy to take on. We want to offer our customers something that is both authentic and of premium quality. Our materials’ story is worth telling because it creates a strong connection with our customers. Most people might not even notice the premium we placed on ensuring that customers feel comfortable seated in a leather-free interior.

Which more sustainable materials were used for the Audi e-tron GT quattro and the Audi RS e-tron GT?

At Audi Color & Trim, neither exterior paint and pigments nor interior leather and textiles alone take center stage. We strive to pair them in such a way as to create a cohesive whole. Audi e-tron GT buyers have a choice between two leather-free interior packages. We developed a completely new textile that combines a high percentage of polyester from up-cycled PET bottles and some industrial production waste. What’s more, in order to retain the fibers’ natural color, we decided to avoid chemical dyeing. Our work on the Audi e-tron GT quattro and the Audi RS e-tron GT shows our vision when it comes to contributing to sustainability. This is what we want for the future.

Let’s go back to how you started your journey with Audi.

While studying design at the Polytechnic University of Milan, I was at first mostly interested in products. But in 2004, at the age of just 21 when I started working in the automotive industry as a designer at an Italian car manufacturer, I was especially drawn to colors and materials. It was a great opportunity for me to offer customers in the industry something different. Since it was emotionally so satisfying, I decided to stay in the field. I joined Audi in 2010 and, today, it feels as if I’ve been in the Color & Trim department most of my life.

Working with materials and colors really is your longstanding passion.

Yes, colors and materials are my way of giving expression to the Audi DNA. Of course, that’s not to say it’s something static—our Audi color and material palette is continually evolving.

In the fashion industry, it’s apparent that people sometimes don’t respond to certain colors and they fall flat. What about the automotive industry? Are there colors that you never use?

Since our focus is on conveying the Four Rings’ premium and luxury character, we mostly stick to subtle colors—nothing too bold, or too loud.

Do you feel that both the automobile and fashion industries can be part of the solution in creating a more sustainable future?

Yes, I do. Even if we cannot change the world, we can at least help point it in the right direction. As major global brands, we can take the lead and focus on driving real change.