Artificial leather is not new, though texture, feel and appearance have probably greatly improved.
Rexine leathercloth was widely used in trimming and upholstering the interiors of motor vehicles produced by British car manufacturers beginning in the 1920s, its cost being around a quarter that of leather. It was used by the British Motor Corporation in the 1960s and 70s, particularly as a covering for 'crash padding' on dashboards and doors.
Other brands such as Vynide and Ambla were also popular as passenger vehicle (car) trimming materials in the 1970s and are probably still in use today.
RE: Go North East: Latest News & Discussion - March 2015