Mitsubishi develops 'green' plastics
20 February 2006
- Materials made from plant resin and bamboo
- Adds no extra CO2 to atmosphere
- Green plastics concept to be launched in 2007
Mitsubishi is developing cabin materials made from renewable resources, which it hopes will reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
The manufacturer has called the materials 'Green Plastics', and they are made from a plant-based resin and bamboo fibre. The first car fitted out with green plastic will be a new concept car to be launched in Japan next year.
According to Mitsubishi, the resin/bamboo material cuts carbon dioxide emissions by 50% compared with traditional oil-based plastics. The process is carbon neutral in that it adds no extra carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.
The resin is extracted from sugar and corn, while the green credentials of bamboo are that it grows quicker than traditional timber.
In addition to green plastic, Mitsubishi's other environmental plans include cars powered by four electric motors, one housed in each of wheel. A concept using this technology will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next week.
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