Ford likely to use bamboo in cars

Ford is experimenting with bamboo, which could be used to build and reinforce some features of their new cars, said a press release.

The automaker worked with suppliers to evaluate the viability of using bamboo in vehicle interiors and to make extra strong parts by combining it with plastic.

According to the press release, Ford’s team of experts has found that bamboo performs comprehensively better than other tested synthetic and natural fibers in a range of materials tests, from tensile strength tests to impact strength tests. It has also been heated to more than 100 degrees Celsius to ensure it can maintain its integrity.

The benefits of bamboo have been recognized for more than a century — Thomas Edison even experimented with it when making the first light bulb.

In building, its tensile strength (or how much it can resist being pulled apart) is well known, as it can rival, or even better, some types of metal. And, because it grows to full maturity in just two to five years — compared to up to decades for other trees — bamboo also regenerates easily.

While tests on bamboo continue, Ford is already making use of sustainable materials. The company uses the following sustainable materials:

Kenaf, a tropical plant in the cotton family, is used in the door bolsters of Ford Escape

Rice hulls are used to reinforce plastic in the Ford F-150 electrical harness

Soy-based foams are used as seat cushions, seatbacks and head restraints

Wheat straw is used in Ford Flex to reinforce storage bins

Cellulose tree fibers are used to replace glass-filled plastic; this industry-first material weighs 10 percent less, is produced 30 percent faster, and reduces carbon emissions.

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