It’s no secret that "smart fabrics" are the wave of the future. Automakers are using them in concept vehicles to control equipment, provide interior lighting, make airbags more effective and more. Now, researchers in the U.S. and China are using smart fabrics to harness and store energy to power equipment — a technology that if applied to cars could replace batteries and be a … [Read more...] about Upholstery May One Day Replace Batteries
Green Upholstery
Interior Maker Takes on Flint Water Crisis
It's not easy to find the silver lining in Flint's water crisis — but at least one company is trying. C3 Venture, a manufacturer of plastics for automotive interiors, recently announced that it's investing $9.68 million to open a new facility in the Michigan city, where it will hire 380 locals to recycle plastic water bottles used by residents without access to clean tap water … [Read more...] about Interior Maker Takes on Flint Water Crisis
Automakers Pursue Alternative Fabrics
Over the past decade, automakers have attempted to develop high-quality, sustainable fabrics from odd sources — including pineapple leaves, water bottles, fruit paste, old pants, Christmas trees, sugarcane, newspapers, and even recycled dollar bills. In a recent article, BBC Autos highlights some of the most promising materials in development and speculates as to why … [Read more...] about Automakers Pursue Alternative Fabrics
Yes, the Grass Soft Top is Back!
In April 2014, German automaker Opel pranked customers with the unveiling of a new car featuring real grass upholstery. Of course, it was an April Fool's Day joke. However, at least one person appears to have taken the gag seriously. … [Read more...] about Yes, the Grass Soft Top is Back!
Ford Recycles CO2 to Create Foam
Ford Motor Company has always been a leader in the use of recycled materials. They've employed everything from old pants and plants to uncirculated cash and water bottles in the construction of their interiors. Now the automaker has announced a new achievement in recycling: It's recapturing CO2 to create foam and plastic. … [Read more...] about Ford Recycles CO2 to Create Foam
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