Ford to Construct Interiors Out of Tropical Plant Matter
Ford's pursuit of fuel efficiency and sustainability is moving to auto interiors. The automaker recently announced that its upcoming Escape SUV will feature door bolsters made from kenaf, a flowering tropical plant.
The company estimates using the kenaf in production will offset 300,000 pounds of oil-based resins this year. An added benefit is the door bolsters will be 25 percent lighter and so improve fuel efficiency as well. They will consist of a 50/50 mix of kenaf and polypropylene and me fabricated by Indiana-based supplier International Automotive Components.
The kenaf plant grows long stems similar to bamboo. The fiber can be processed into different materials, such as rope or paper.
Ford is using other sustainable materials as well, including soy gaskets and seals and seat covers made of recycled plastic. The company claims 85 percent of the Escape will be recyclable.
Source: news.cnet.com
