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What is Ford ActiveX seating material made of?

ActiveX is Ford's leather-free seating material, built primarily from a polyester microfiber substrate with a polyurethane coating that aims to mimic the look and feel of leather while offering stain resistance and durability.


Ford positions ActiveX as a premium interior option across several models, designed to provide a luxe, easy-to-clean experience without animal products. Below is what is publicly described about its composition and construction.


Composition and Construction


The following overview breaks down the material’s likely components and how they contribute to performance.



  • Substrate: polyester microfiber fabric that provides a soft, suede-like feel.

  • Coating: polyurethane (PU) layer applied to the microfiber to create a leather-like surface with durability and water-repellency.

  • Finish: protective topcoats or sealants that enhance stain resistance and ease of cleaning; may include UV stabilizers to help maintain color over time.


Note: Ford has not published a full chemical specification for ActiveX in consumer materials; public descriptions describe it as a polyester microfiber with a polyurethane coating/topcoat. Exact formulations can vary by model and production year.


Why Ford Uses ActiveX


Ford markets ActiveX as offering a leather-like experience with the practical benefits of synthetic fabrics—easier maintenance, lower cost, and animal-product-free interiors—without sacrificing perceived luxury.


Practical Considerations


In practical terms, ActiveX seeks to balance aesthetics with durability. Its synthetic composition is intended to resist staining and wear from daily use, while remaining relatively easy to clean with standard upholstery cleaners. Real-world performance varies with climate, usage, and care routines.


As with any interior material, model-specific implementations and care guidelines can influence long-term results.


Summary


ActiveX seating material is a leather-free upholstery option from Ford, primarily composed of a polyester microfiber substrate finished with a polyurethane coating and protective topcoats. This combination aims to deliver a leather-like look and feel, along with stain resistance and durability, with exact formulations varying by model and year.

Are Ford seats real leather?


Ford's premium trims get leather seats and plenty of other upgraded options, while lower-level trims have standard cloth seats.



Does ActiveX feel like leather?


ActiveX™ is a high-end synthetic seating material designed to fit your active lifestyle. It is easier to clean, resistant to staining, and more durable than leather while maintaining a premium look and feel over time. ActiveX does not include any animal-based material.



What is the fabric on car seats called?


Vinyl is the preferred option for most car owners because it is easy to clean and maintain. It is available in varieties of colors making it suitable for all types of vehicles whether for commercial or private use. The material is a durable and quality car seat fabric that can stand out among other materials.



What are Ford Active Motion seats?


Ford Active Motion seats are an advanced feature that uses air bladders in the seat cushion and backrest to provide a massage and improve comfort during long drives by reducing muscle fatigue. The system allows drivers to customize the massage through seven air chambers in the seat and offers a rolling-pattern massage to help keep occupants refreshed and focused.
 
This video demonstrates how to use Active Motion seats in a Ford F-150: 59sMitch Cox VideosYouTube · Aug 19, 2021

  • Function: The seats use a series of air bladders to create a massaging effect, which is designed to combat fatigue and improve comfort, especially on long trips. 
  • Customization: The system offers customization for the occupant to adjust the settings. For example, some models allow you to adjust the seven air chambers in both the seat back and seat bottom to personalize the massage experience. 
  • Related features: Active Motion massage is often included as part of more comprehensive comfort packages, which can also feature heated and ventilated seats. 
  • Availability: This feature is available on various Ford models, typically on higher trim levels, such as the F-150, Explorer, and Expedition. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the features of multicontour seats with Active Motion: 29sBattlefield Ford CulpeperYouTube · Dec 26, 2015


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.