Honda Motor Corp. has announced that it has successfully developed ‘bio-fabric’, a new plant-based, durable and sunlight-resistant fabric that can be used as surface material for automobile interiors. Bio-fabric is much more environment-friendly as it cuts down CO2 emissions when disposed of through incineration. Earlier versions of bio-fabric that were introduced did not fare well commercially because of problems with durability as well as aesthetics.

Honda’s bio-fabric has resolved these issues and is now much stronger, smoother and more appropriate for automobile interiors. The new bio-fabric is resistant to sunlight, ensuring that the colors stay fast even after prolonged use and exposure to the bleaching effect of sunlight. The bio-fabric can be used as seat covers, surface for doors and roofs as well as floor mats. Honda’s new fuel-cell vehicle set to debut within three years will be the first model to feature the new bio-fabric.