Everyone loves that new car smell! And this is not just a small detail. Manufacturers take great care to create a pleasant interior. The olfactory atmosphere is part of this cocooning effect.
Several brands have even engaged 'noses'. These fragrance specialists make sure that the interior of the car smells incredible in the long term. A neutral, restful odour that should last for years. There's no question of using a plastic that eventually gives off a nasty smell after a few months. It is therefore necessary to develop materials with a fragrance that will withstand light, cold, heat, touch, humidity and the passing of time.
Teams developing the interiors of cars also seek to strengthen certain fragrances that represent comfort, such as leather. Some manufacturers go one step further by creating specific fragrances, which can be plugged into a diffusion system integrated into the car. This saves you from having to hang that little tree on your rear view mirror.
Protecting the car from unpleasant odours from its materials, as well as from the outside world, is becoming more important. In fact, guaranteeing an interior free of unpleasant odours also aims to limit the driver’s distraction so that they can concentrate fully on driving.
Marketing is also a factor. Manufacturers hope that your brain will enjoy the subtle smell they have developed to keep you loyal. One journey in a competitor's vehicle and its absence could create a sense of loss. There are even sports brands that seek to strengthen the pure mechanical side with distinctive scents reminiscent of the car's performance. But always very subtly.