June 20, 2008 - Mazda is developing a plant-based bioplastic that it says could debut in vehicle instrument panels and car bumpers as early as 2013.

The Mazda Bioplastic Project, a new research collaboration with Japan's Hiroshima University, aims to develop a bioplastic from non-food-based cellulosic biomass (plant matter) and make it commercially viable within five years.

The project will focus on designing a cost-effective production process for a new type of polypropylene that is versatile enough for extensive use in vehicles. The manufacturing process for the material must also be environmentally sensitive, Mazda says.

"Development of a non-food-based bioplastic made from sustainable plant resources has great potential in the fight against global warming, and can help allay global food supply concerns," says Seita Kanai, Mazda's head of R&D. "Through this cooperation, we intend to strengthen Hiroshima's position as a center for biomass research, and develop technology that can be used throughout the world."

Mazda has been working jointly with Hiroshima University's Graduate School of Engineering since 2005. The research partnership has already resulted in a heat-resistant, high-strength bioplastic and a 100% plant-derived fabric for use in car seats - both currently incorporated into the interior of Mazda's Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid.