In recent years, companies have been searching for more sustainable alternatives in many industries.
The automotive industry is no exception. One company from Japan has made a significant development in this area.
They claim to have created the world’s first plant-based motor oil designed for racing cars.
The oil, named Idemitsu IFG Plantech Racing, is made using plant-based materials for over 80% of its base oil, according to Boosted.
This includes oils like palm oil, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil. The company, Idemitsu Kosan Co. Ltd., states that the motor oil has an 82% smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional mineral oil-based motor oils.
A study conducted by Trending Future Research Institute Inc. confirms that Idemitsu IFG Plantech Racing is the first motor oil to combine certification from the American Petroleum Institute (API) with plant-based ingredients.
Before releasing the oil to the market, the company carried out a series of tests. The results were impressive.
The new plant-based oil showed 194% better performance than many competing oils. It also provided 169% better protection for engine parts and 124% better protection for the pistons.
The oil was tested in real racing conditions too. Mazda Spirit Racing used it in their Roadster CNF concept car during the Super Taikyu Series, a race series for cars sold directly by manufacturers.
The oil worked well throughout the five-hour race session.
The company plans to first sell Idemitsu IFG Plantech Racing oil online to customers in Thailand, Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia.
They also expect to expand sales to countries like the United States, Brazil, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, China, and India in the future.
This innovative product offers a greener alternative for the racing industry.
It shows how companies can take steps toward reducing their environmental impact, even in high-performance areas like motorsports.
