Toyota now uses Ecological Plastics in new Prius
Toyota Prius
Toyota‘s determinination to further reduce emissions and promote sustainability prompted research to develop the world’s first injection moulded material to be derived from plant matter. The new Toyota Prius already offers great fuel economy and clean running, by using the Toyota Drive full hybrid powertrain, so this is yet another “tick in the box” for it’s green credentials.
There are two types of Ecological Plastic: one produced entirely from plant stuffs and another manufactured from a combination of plant and petroleum-based materials. With plant matter making up a percentage of both, Toyota is claiming that CO2 emissions linked to Ecological Plastic throughout its lifecycle, are around 20 per cent less than for conventional plastics.
Toyota Prius
This is because much of the CO2 created when the material is ultimately disposed of, is offset by the amount of gas that was absorbed through photosynthesis, when the plants used to make it were growing.
The new Ecological Plastic meets heat and shock-resistance requirements for use in vehicle interiors, with different combinations of the raw material being used to create the right quality, strength and durability for different parts. Plant-derived materials include polylactic acid, plant-derived polyester, kenaf fibre and polyol, which is derived from castor oil.
Ecological Plastic is used for foam and injection moulded parts in the new Prius, including seat cushions, scuff plates and deck trim. Toyota car leasing prices are easily available on all Toyota models off the site.
Tags: co2 emissions, ecological plastics, new toyota prius, toyota car leasing