Matchbox goes green with new cars
LONDON: Matchbox is launching a new series of toy cars based on reallife electric and hybrid vehicles, in a bid to make its miniatures more sustainable and to raise awareness among children of the environmental impact of motoring.
The first model off the production line is a scaleddown version of the Tesla Roadster, which will be joined by toys based on cars made by Nissan, Toyota and BMW. Electric charging stations will also go on sale this year.
‘‘We are unveiling a concept car, just like the real car industry does,’’ Nuria Alonso, head of Matchbox marketing, said.
She added that it would be the first diecast model made of 99% recycled materials.
‘‘We wanted to work with Tesla to inspire kids as the future drivers of tomorrow. We think their parents will love to see how their kids play with cars that encourage environmental consciousness, like electric cars.’’
The Matchbox brand was created nearly 70 years ago and sells more than 40 million diecast vehicles each year.