Mazda: plant-sourced fiber for vehicle interiors

Japanese automaker Mazda has introduced a biofabric made from completely plant-sourced fibers, suitable for use in vehicle interiors -- an industry's first.

Developed in collaboration with Teijin Limited and Teijin Fibers Limited, this new biofabric does not contain any oil-based materials, yet it possesses the quality and durability required for use in vehicle seat covers. Resistant to abrasion and damage from sunlight, in addition to being flame retardant, the new biofabric meets the highest quality standards.

Mazda plans on using it for the seat covers and door trim in the all-new Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid Concept that will be showcased in October at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. This vehicle will also feature a bioplastic which Mazda developed in 2006.

Mazda's biofabric is made of 100 percent polylactic acid -- a plastic created by combining large numbers of lactic acid molecules that are made from fermented carbohydrates such as plant sugars.
photo:Mazda