Index
Increased use of variable valve timing and lift mechanisms of advanced functionality
Substances of environmental concern: Discontinued use of mercury spreading to exempted...
Toyota increases the use of plant-origin materials and their locations; used in 60% of interior...
Executive Summary
Reported below is the summary of environmental performances of new passenger cars released by Japanese automakers for marketing in Japanese markets in 2009 (new models and fully-redesigned models only; OEM vehicles are not accounted for).
In terms of reduction of exhaust gas emissions, most of the new models meet the 75% reduction norm from the 2005 emissions standard. With regard to fuel efficiency, nearly all new models other than a few grades comply with the 2010 fuel efficiency standard. Among the new models, all hybrid models already comply with the 2015 fuel efficiency standard.
Many new models are equipped with engines that feature advanced variable valve mechanisms as a way to raise their environmental performance. Also evident is the increased use of indicators that assist eco-driving and driving modes that are designed to suppress fuel consumption.
All new models meet voluntary goals (lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium compound, and cadmium) set by JAMA to reduce the amounts of their use.
With regard to the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) environmental issue involving automobiles, there has been a further increase in the components that use recycled materials. Toyota has increased the use and the types of plant-derived materials in its products. For instance, 60% of the interior surface area of its new HEV, SAI, is made from eco-plastics.
Emissions and fuel efficiencies of new passenger car models introduced by Japanese auto manufacturers in Japanese market in 2009
Model
(Month/Year
of release) |
2005 emission regulations |
2010 fuel efficiency standards |
75%
lower level
(SU-LEV) |
50%
lower level
(U-LEV) |
+ 25%
better level |
+ 20%
better level |
+ 15%
better level |
Conforming |
Toyota SAI
(Dec. 2009) |
All grades |
|
All grades |
|
|
|
Toyota Mark X
(Oct. 2009) |
All grades |
|
|
|
2.5L･2WD
(1,520kg
or heavier) |
2.5L models
other than
a few 2WD
models |
Toyota
Land Cruiser Prado
(Sep. 2009) |
|
All grades |
|
|
|
All grades |
Toyota Prius
(May 2009) |
All grades |
|
All grades |
|
|
|
Toyota Wish
(Apr. 2009) |
All grades |
|
1.8L･2WD
with type numbers
starting
with 5 |
1.8L･2WD
with type numbers
starting
with 3 |
1.8L･4WD
and
2.0L model |
|
Toyota Crown Majesta
(Mar. 2009) |
All grades |
|
|
|
|
2WD
(1,770kg
or heavier) |
Lexus HS250h
(Jul. 2009) |
All grades |
|
All grades |
|
|
|
Lexus IS250C
(Jul. 2009) |
All grades |
|
|
|
|
All grades |
Lexus RX450h
(Apr. 2009)
Lexus RX350
(Jan. 2009) |
All grades |
|
|
|
|
All grades |
Honda STEPWGN
(Oct. 2009) |
All grades |
|
2WD |
4WD |
|
|
Honda Insight
(Feb. 2009) |
All grades |
|
All grades |
|
|
|
Nissan Fuga
(Nov. 2009) |
All grades |
|
2.5L･2WD
(1,770kg
or heavier) |
|
2.5L･2WD
(less than 1,770kg) |
3.7L 2WD
(1,770kg
or heavier)
and 4WD |
Nissan
Skyline Crossover
(Jul. 2009) |
All grades |
|
|
|
|
2WD
(1,770kg
or heavier)
and 4WD |
Mazda Axela
(Jun. 2009) |
All grades |
|
2.0L･2WD |
|
1.5L |
|
Mitsubishi i-MiEV
(Jul. 2009) |
CO2, NOx, NMHC,
CO zero emissions |
10･15 mode AC power consumption 125Wh/km |
Suzuki Alto
(Dec. 2009) |
All grades |
|
CVT and
2WD･5MT |
4WD･5MT |
All others |
|
Suzuki Kizashi
(Oct. 2009) |
|
All grades |
|
|
|
4WD |
Subaru Legacy
(May 2009) |
All grades |
|
|
Some of the
CVT models
(1,520kg
or heavier) |
Some of the
CVT models
(1,520kg
or heavier) |
Nearly
all other
grades |
| Source: Each company's environmental information by model as of the beginning of February 2010 |
| (Notes) 1. |
New models and fully-redesigned models are accounted for (OEM vehicles are excluded). Subaru Legacy had three types fully-remodeled concurrently (Touring Wagon, B4, Outback) and only the performance of Touring Wagon is included in the table above. |
| 2. |
"Conforming" under 2010 fuel efficiency standard includes +5% and +10% higher levels. |
| 3. |
The "eco-car tax" privileges introduced on April 1, 2009 to promote the use of environmentally-friendly vehicles, includes 100% exemption of both the automobile weight tax and acquisition tax for hybrid vehicles that meet SU-LEV level (emission performance) and 2010 fuel efficiency standard +25% or higher level. Under the same taxation, 75% tax reductions apply to gasoline fueled vehicles that meet SU-LEV level (emission performance) and 2010 fuel efficiency standard +25% or higher level; 50% reductions to gasoline fueled vehicles that meet 2010 fuel efficiency standard +20% and +15%. The privilege period lasts until April 30, 2012 (automobile weight tax) and March 31, 2012 (automobile acquisition tax). |
| 4. |
The automobile "green tax" privileges include 50% tax reduction for those vehicles that SU-LEV level and 2010 fuel efficiency standard +25% or higher level; 25% reductions for those that meet 2010 fuel efficiency standard +20% and +15%. The privilege period lasts until March 31, 2010. |
| 5. |
The "eco-car subsidy" program (financial aid for the penetration of environmentally-friendly vehicles) that was introduced on April 10, 2009, offers 250,000 Yen to the registered vehicle owner that trades a 13 years or older vehicle with a new car that meet the 2010 fuel efficiency standard. Those owners that buy new registered vehicles without trading in the old car will receive 100,000 Yen if the new vehicle meets SU-LEV emission performance level and 2010 fuel efficiency standard +15% or higher. The privilege period lasts until September 30, 2010. |
| 6. |
The 2015 fuel efficiency standard announced in July 2007 includes the average fuel efficiency of 16.8km/L or higher for passenger cars (23.5% improvement over the result in 2004) and a change of fuel efficiency testing method from the 10･15 mode to JC08 mode test run. Among the new passenger cars introduced in 2009, Toyota SAI, Toyota Prius, Lexus HS250h, Lexus RX450h, and Honda Insight meet the 2015 fuel efficiency standard. |
Increased use of variable valve timing and lift mechanisms of advanced functionality
Most engines on the new passenger cars that were introduced in the home market in 2009 are equipped with variable valve mechanisms of advanced functionality.
The variable valve timing mechanisms have dual systems that incorporates continuously variable control of both the intake and exhaust valves, or systems that incorporates motor driven control of the intake valves. The use is also increasing of variable valve lift control systems. Variations of variable valve mechanisms include cylinder idle systems and Atkinson-cycle engines.
Also increasing is the availability of eco-drive assist indicators and eco-drive modes that place priority on fuel efficiency over driving force or air conditioning.
Use of variable valve mechanisms used in new passenger cars introduced by Japanese automakers in Japanese market in 2009
Continuously
variable valve
timing control
systems |
Intake |
Suzuki (VVT: Alto, Kizashi)
Mazda (Axela) |
| Intake and exhaust |
Toyota (Dual VVT-i: Mark X, Land Cruiser Prado, Lexus IS250C)
Fuji Heavy Industries (Dual AVCS: Legacy) |
Electrically controlled
at the intake |
Toyota (VVT-iE: Crown Majesta)
(Note: Hydraulically controlled at the exhaust) |
Variable valve lift
control systems |
Continuously
variable control |
Toyota (VALVEMATIC: Wish)
Nissan (VVEL: Fuga, Skyline Crossover) |
High/low speed range
selectable |
Honda (i-VTEC: STEPWGN)
Fuji Heavy Industries (i-AVLS: Legacy) |
| Cylinder idle systems |
Honda (VCM: Insight) |
| Atkinson cycle engine |
Toyota (SAI, Prius, Lexus HS250h, Lexus RX450h) |
| Source: Press releases from each company |
| (Notes) 1. |
Variable valve timing mechanisms are intended to optimize the intake and exhaust valve opening/closing timing to best suit the exact driving condition (based on the engine rpm and load). |
| 2. |
Variable valve lift mechanisms are intended to variably control the amount of intake valve lift according to the driving condition. |
| 3. |
The cylinder idle system closes intake and exhaust valves (or intake valves only) while the engine is under low load to deactivate some or all cylinders to reduce the amount of fuel consumption. |
| 4. |
In the Atkinson-cycle engine, the intake valve closing timing is delayed to make the ratio of expansion larger than that of compression thereby increasing the efficiency of combustion. |
Toyota: Examples of improved environmental performances in Toyota/Lexus brand passenger cars introduced by Toyota in Japanese market in 2009
Model
(Month/Year
of release) |
Technologies behind improved fuel efficiency,
exhaust gas purification and fuel-efficient-drive assists |
Toyota SAI
(Dec. 2009) |
"THS II with reduction gear" is a hybrid system that incorporates the 2.4L Atkinson-cycle engine, motor, and reduction gear and runs on the motor alone at starting and during low speed driving. The vehicle has a 10･15 mode fuel efficiency of 23.0km/L. |
| The exhaust gas recirculation system effectively increases fuel efficiency in cold climate as the engine warm-up time is reduced by heating the cooling water with heat of the exhaust gas. The car also has the electric power-thrifty LED headlamps. |
| The hybrid system indicator gives real-time display of "eco-drive" status while the eco-drive indicator lamp goes on when the car is moving in eco-drive status. The available eco-drive mode suppresses fuel consumption by optimum control of driving force, relative to the accelerator pedal operation, and air conditioning. |
| "ESPO" (eco-passport) is a special service designed to help the driver enjoy eco-driving at all times. It uses telematics service to evaluate the driver's eco-friendliness while on the road. The driver gets award points that may be used in social contribution activities. |
Toyota Mark X
(Oct. 2009) |
The newly-adopted 3.5L V6 Dual VVT-i engine features a fuel injection system for optimum control of direct injection and port injection to best suit the exact driving condition. The 2.5L V6 Dual VVT-i is a direct injection engine. Both engines are combined with the 6-speed AT (6 super ECT: Electronically Controlled Transmission) and features high performance three-way catalysts, air-fuel ratio compensator, etc. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 10.2km/L for 3.5L type (2WD) and 13.0km/L for 2.5L type (2WD). |
| The eco-drive indicator lamp goes on when the car is moving in eco-drive condition and the eco-drive indicator zone displays the current accelerator angle and the associated range of eco-driving. The available eco-drive mode is an energy-saving measure through an optimum control of driving force and air conditioning. |
Toyota
Land Cruiser Prado
(Sep. 2009) |
The 4.0L V6 engine is combined with a 5-speed AT (5 Super ECT) and the 2.7L in-line 4-cylinder engine is combined with a 4-speed AT. The car features high performance three-way catalysts and air-fuel ratio compensator. The Dual VVT-i and roller rocker arm were used for the first time. The 4.0L engine has accomplished higher output power (+20kW) and higher fuel efficiency (+0.4km/L) without affecting each other. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 8.2km/L for 4.0L type and 8.8km/L for 2.7L type. |
| The eco-drive indicator lamp goes on when the car is moving in eco-drive condition and the eco-drive indicator zone displays the current accelerator angle and the associated range of eco-driving. |
Toyota Prius
(May 2009) |
"THS II with reduction gear" is a hybrid system that incorporates the 1.8L Atkinson-cycle engine, motor, and reduction gear. Newly-developed systems account for more than 90% of the system. The car runs on the motor alone at starting and during low speed driving. The vehicle has a 10･15 mode fuel efficiency of 38.0km/L and has dynamic performance that normally belongs to 2.4L model. |
| The speed of the newly-developed 1.8L engine is reduced in high speeds to increase its fuel efficiency. The car features a battery-driven electric water pump (a Toyota first) that reduces friction loss by means of exact control of the flow of cooling water and by the motor-driven drive belt. The car also features cool EGR system and roller rocker arm that increase the efficiency of combustion. Also featured is the exhaust heat recirculation system that uses heat of the exhaust gas to warm-up the heater and the engine. |
| The eco-drive monitor, designed to support eco-friendly driving, gives a real-time display of the operating condition of the hybrid system, latest fuel efficiency, history of fuel efficiency, remaining energy level, etc. The available eco-drive mode is an energy-saving measure through an optimum control of driving force and air conditioning. |
Toyota Wish
(Apr. 2009) |
"VALVEMATIC" is Toyota's engine valve operating mechanism in which the intake valve lift and timing are varied steplessly and continuously. It is incorporated in the 1.8L/2.0L engines and combined with the fuel-efficient Super CVT-i. A result is a up to 15% increase in fuel efficiency compared to the conventional vehicles. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 16.0km/L for 1.8L/2WD type and 15.2km/L for the 2.0L type. The car also features three-way catalysts and air-fuel ratio compensator. |
| The eco-drive indicator lamp goes on when the car is moving in eco-drive condition and the eco-drive indicator zone displays the current accelerator angle and the associated range of eco-driving. The available eco-drive mode is an energy-saving measure through an optimum control of driving force and air conditioning. |
Toyota
Crown Majesta
(Mar. 2009) |
The 2WD models are powered by the combination of the 4.6L V8 VVT-iE engine and 8 Super ECT. The 4WD models are powered by the combination of the 4.3L V8 VVT-i engine and 6 Super ECT. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 9.1km/L on 2WD with vehicle weight over 1,770kg. |
| The 4.6L V8 engine, newly-adopted in 2WD models, features VVT-iE that electrically controls the variable intake valve timing mechanism. This gives an optimum control of the valve timing over an extensive range of driving range that was uncontrollable by the conventional hydraulic means. The car also features a fuel injection system that gives optimum control of the direct fuel injection and port injection to best suit the driving condition. |
| The eco-drive indicator lamp goes on when the car is moving in eco-drive condition and the eco-drive indicator zone displays the current accelerator angle and the associated range of eco-driving. The available eco-drive mode is an energy-saving measure through an optimum control of driving force and air conditioning. |
Lexus HS250h
(Jul. 2009) |
The hybrid system incorporates a 2.4L Atkinson-cycle engine, motor and reduction gear. The car has an exhaust heat recirculation system, infrared cut glass and LED headlamps and tail lamps as the means to increase fuel efficiency. The car's 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 23.0km/L. |
| The hybrid system indicator gives real-time display of "eco-drive" status while the available eco-drive mode is an energy-saving measure through an optimum control of driving force and air conditioning. |
| "Harmonious driving navigator" is a new service that supports eco-driving on a continuous basis, similar to ESPO used in the Toyota SAI. |
Lexus IS250C
(Jul. 2009) |
The 2.5L V6 Dual VVT-i engine is combined with a 6-speed AT (6 Super ECT). The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 11.2km/L |
Lexus RX450h
(Apr. 2009)
Lexus RX350
(Jan. 2009) |
The RX450h features "THS II with reduction gear" - a hybrid system that incorporates the 3.5L V6 Atkinson-cycle engine, motor, and the inverter with a drastically improved cooling performance. The car has EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system, exhaust heat recirculation system and LED headlamps. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency of the 4WD model is 18.8km/L. |
| The RX450h has the available eco-drive mode which is an fuel-saving measure through an optimum control of driving force and air conditioning. |
| The RX350 is powered by the 3.5L V6 engine combined with a 6-speed AT. The 4WD model has the available AWD system with active torque control that gives optimum distribution of torque to the front and rear wheels according to the vehicle speed and road conditions, to achieve high fuel efficiency and driving stability. |
Source: Toyota's environmental information by model, new car announcement materials, on-line catalogs, etc.
Honda, Nissan: Examples of improved environmental performances in new passenger cars introduced in Japanese market in 2009
Model
(Month/Year
of release) |
Technologies behind improved fuel efficiency,
exhaust gas purification and fuel-efficient-drive assists |
Honda STEPWGN
(Oct. 2009) |
The 2.0L i-VTEC engine features variable intake volume control, in addition to the valve timing control, that gives optimum control of the throttle valve by means of DBW (drive by wire) system to increase fuel efficiency. The engine is combined with CVT with a torque converter on the 2WD model, and with a 5-speed AT on the 4WD model. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 14.2km/L for the 2WD model, and 12.6km/L for the 4WD model. |
| "Eco assist" is intended to support fuel-efficient driving through a number of features that include "coaching" that gives a real-time knowledge about the degree of eco-friendly driving. The "ECON" mode places priority on fuel efficiency over the engine, transmission, etc. |
Honda Insight
(Feb. 2009) |
The 1.3L i-VTEC engine has a variable cylinder system (Variable Cylinder Management = VCM), in which all cylinders are deactivated as needed, and is combined with Honda's unique hybrid system (Integrated Motor Assist = IMA). The car runs on the motor alone in low speed range and also features an idle-stop mechanism. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 30km/L. |
| The DC brushless motor is 22% thinner and 15% lighter than that of the Civic Hybrid and the Ni-MH battery module is 30% more powerful and durable. The number of modules has been reduced from 11 to 7, resulting in 31% downsizing and 35% reduction in weight. |
| "Eco-assist" and "ECON mode" that support fuel-efficient driving are standard on all grades. |
Nissan Fuga
(Nov. 2009) |
The 2.5L/3.7L engines are combined with a 7-speed AT that has a manual mode. The 3.7L engine has VVEL that gives a variable control of the intake valve operating angle and lift. The 7-speed AT features a synchro-rev control that allows quick and smooth downshift by increasing the engine rpm momentarily for gear synchronization, and N-idle (neutral idle) function that minimizes unneeded fuel consumption while the engine is idle. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 12.2km/L for 2.5L/2WD model. |
| The drive mode selector, a standard feature, offers ECO mode that gives optimum control of the powertrain, four-wheel active steer and other systems to best suit fuel-efficient driving. The ECO mode is associated with the available ECO pedal by which the pedal's reactive force is increased momentarily to alert the driver when the accelerator pedal is pressed too low. |
Nissan
Skyline Crossover
(Jul. 2009) |
The 3.7L engine is combined with the VVEL (continuously variable control of the valve operating angle and lift) with a 7-speed AT that has a manual mode. The 7-speed AT has N-idle (neutral idle) function that minimizes unneeded fuel consumption while the engine is idle. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 9.7km/L for 2WD model. |
Source: Honda and Nissan's environmental information by model, new car announcement materials, on-line catalogs, etc.
Mazda, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Subaru: Examples of improved environmental performances in new passenger cars introduced in Japanese market in 2009
Model
(Month/Year
of release) |
Technologies behind improved fuel efficiency,
exhaust gas purification and fuel-efficient-drive assists |
Mazda Axela
(Jun. 2009) |
The "i-stop" (idling stop system) is a standard feature on 2.0L･2WD model. A combustion start system is used to restart the engine to reduce the restart time to 0.35 seconds, nearly 50% of the time normally associated with ordinary systems. The 1.5L model is combined with a new CVT. A variable valve timing mechanism is standard on all engines. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 16.4km/L (15% improvement from earlier models) for 2.0L･2WD model and 18.4km/L (5% improvement) for 1.5L model. |
| Models with the "i-stop" system have eco-drive assist systems. The multi information display indicates the effect of the "i-stop" for eco-friendly driving and its contribution to the environment. |
| The world's first "single nano" (single-digit nano sized) catalyst is newly-introduced on 2.0L･2WD and other models to realize 70% reduction in the use of precious metals. Mazda has invented a unique structure to embed precious metals in the catalytic material to realize drastic reduction in the amount of platinum, palladium, rhodium and other precious metals. |
Mitsubishi i-MiEV
(Jul. 2009) |
The car has lithium-ion battery (16kWh total) and a motor with maximum output of 47kW/3000~6000rpm and maximum torque 180N-m/0~2000rpm. The car runs on the motor alone at all times. The battery can be recharged from the 200/100VAC household outlet or three-phase 200V50kW quick charger. |
Suzuki Alto
(Dec. 2009) |
The standard 0.66L engine with VVT reflects changes to the intake manifold and other systems that resulted in higher intake efficiency associated with further improvement of fuel efficiency. The CVT with a 2-stage (low, high) auxiliary gearbox has a wider shift range that resulted in higher fuel and start and acceleration performances. The car also features "neutral control" system that automatically disengages the clutch if the car comes to stop with the shift lever in "D" range. The 10･15 fuel efficiency of the model with the CVT system is 24.5km/L. All AT models have 4-speed AT system with a broader lock-up range which resulted in 22.5km/L fuel efficiency for 2WD model. |
Suzuki Kizashi
(Oct. 2009) |
The 2.4L engine of higher intake and exhaust efficiencies realized with the use of the variable valve timing system and the dual muffler, is combined with a 6-speed CVT with a manual mode. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency for is 212.6km/L for the 2WD model and 11.4km/L for the 4WD model. |
Subaru Legacy
(May 2009) |
The 2.5L horizontally opposed engine with the "i-AVLS" (i-Active Valve Lift System) is combined with the Lineartronic CVT of high transmission efficiency. The 2.5L horizontally opposed turbocharged engine with the "Dual AVCS" (Dual Active Valve Control System) is combined with a 5-speed AT or a 6-speed MT. The 3.6L horizontally opposed engine with the Dual AVCS is combined with a 5-speed AT. The 10･15 mode fuel efficiency is 14.0km/L for the CVT model and 12.0km/L for the 5-speed AT model. |
| Fuel-efficient driving is supported by a number of features that include the ECO gauge in the meter (to display the difference between the average and instant fuel efficiencies) and a shift-up indicator (on 6-speed MT model). |
Source: Each company's environmental information by model, new car announcement materials, on-line catalogs, etc.
Substances of environmental concern: Discontinued use of mercury spreading to exempted parts as well; use of lead discontinued in an increasing number of parts
In 2002, JAMA set forth voluntary goals to reduce the use of four substances of environmental concern (lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium compound and cadmium). The goals were achieved in 2009 on all new vehicles.
Among the four substances, the discontinued use of mercury is spreading to parts as well that are not included in the voluntary goals. The number of parts that contain lead is decreasing and the number of parts of discontinued use of lead is increasing.
Discontinued use of mercury in new passenger cars introduced by Japanese automakers in Japanese market in 2009
|
| With regard to the reduced use of mercury, all Japanese automakers have met JAMA's voluntary goal to "stop using mercury after January 2005" in automotive parts, other than certain items for which the use of a trace of mercury is permitted. Items that have been exempted from the voluntary action are navigation and other liquid crystal displays, instrument clusters, discharge headlamps, and indoor fluorescent lamps. |
| |
Ended use of mercury in items exempted from JAMA voluntary goals |
| Toyota |
Mark X, Wish,
Lexus RX450h/350 |
Discharge headlamps, instrument clusters |
| Land Cruiser Prado |
Speedometers |
| Lexus HS250h |
Instrument clusters |
| Lexus IS250C |
Discharge headlamps, speedometers |
| Honda |
STEPWGN |
Instrument clusters |
| Insight |
Fuji Heavy
Industries |
Legacy |
Navigation and other liquid crystal displays, instrument cluster, indoor fluorescent lamps |
| (Notes) 1. |
Model-based environmental information published by respective automakers. |
| 2. |
JAMA's voluntary goal with cadmium to "stop use after January 2007" has been met by all automakers. |
| 3. |
JAMA's voluntary goal with hexavalent chromium compound to "stop use after January 2008" has been met by all automakers. |
Use of lead in new passenger cars introduced by Japanese automakers in home market in 2009
|
JAMA's voluntary goal to reduce the amount of lead used in 2006 to 1/10 of the
1996 level (equal to 185 grams or less) has been met by all automakers.
This goal does not apply to the lead batteries for which a recycling system has been established. |
| |
Parts with lead contents |
| Toyota |
Toyota is not disclosing parts of discontinued use of lead in its model-based environmental publications since 2008. Incidentally, use of lead was abolished with new model launches in 2007 in such parts as radiators, heater cores, battery cable terminals, wire harness covering, fuel tanks and electro-deposition paints. |
| Honda |
STEPWGN |
(Parts with lead contents) Solders on electronic circuit boards and electric parts, piezoelectric elements (PZT sensors), etc |
| Insight |
| Nissan |
Skyline Crossover |
(Parts with lead contents) Power steering pressurized hose, bulbs and ignition plugs, PVC and rubber parts, solders on electronic circuit boards and electric parts, piezoelectric elements (PZT sensors), bearings, etc |
Mitsubishi
Motors |
i-MiEV |
(Parts with lead contents) Solders on electronic circuit boards and electric parts, copper and aluminum alloys, etc |
| Suzuki |
Alto |
(Parts with lead contents) Electronic circuit boards |
| Kizashi |
Fuji Heavy
Industries |
Legacy |
(Parts with lead contents) Solders on electronic circuit boards and electric parts, piezoelectric elements (PZT sensors), etc |
| (Parts of discontinued lead use) Wheel balancers, electro-deposition paints, fuel hose, power steering pressurized hose, bulbs and ignition plugs, valve seats, fuel tanks, bearings, PVC and rubber parts, etc |
(Note) Model-based environmental information published by respective automakers
Toyota increases the use of plant-origin materials and their locations; used in 60% of interior surface area of SAI
With regard to the automotive 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) issue, the use of plant-derived material is increasing as in the case of Toyota using a large amount of plant-derived eco-plastics in the new full-time hybrid model, SAI, launched in December 2009. A slow but steady increase is seen among all automakers in terms of the locations in vehicles where they use recycled materials.
Toyota: Plant-derived eco-plastics used in 60% of surface area of SAI, the new HEV model
| Eco-plastics, raw material made from plants, is used in 60% of the total surface area of SAI, the new HEV model that Toyota launched in December 2009. The use of the carbon-neutral material (the amount of CO2 remains unchanged through the part's life cycle) suppresses the amount of CO2 emission and reduces the use of petroleum resources. |
| "Eco-plastics" is a generic term of plastics, developed by Toyota for automobiles, with plant-origin contents and is better than more general bio-plastics in terms of thermal and shock resistances. It is made by a highly advanced chemical process using raw materials of plant and petroleum origins in such a way that gives the needed resistances against heat and physical impacts as well as the same quality and availability for mass production of interior parts for automotive use. |
| One of SAI's unique aspects is the use of eco-plastics in making the interior trim surfaces as well marking the world's first application (according to Toyota's research) of eco-plastic surface materials made from plant-based polyester to interior parts of mass-produced vehicles. The surface material newly-developed for SAI is made from threads of special structures consisting of plant-based polyester and petroleum-based PET (polyethylene terephthalate). Toyota used optimum structural designing and processing technologies to attain the quality required of interior parts. |
Source: Toyota Press Release 2009.10.20, Toyota Boshoku Press Release 2009.11.16
Use of plant-derived materials in new passenger cars introduced by Japanese automakers in Japanese market in 2009
| |
Parts where plant-derived material is used |
| Toyota |
SAI's eco-plastics |
(Surface material: Co-developed with Toyota Boshoku and Toray) Ceiling, sun visor, pillar garnish (front, center, rear) |
| (Base material: Co-developed with Toyota Boshoku and Toray) Door trim ornament (front, rear) |
| (Injection molding: Co-developed with Sumitomo Chemical) Cowl side trim, door scuff plate, finish plate, tool box |
| (Unwoven surface: Co-developed with Toray) Trunk mat, trunk door trim, trunk trim (front, side) |
| (Foam: Co-developed with Toyota Boshoku and Mitsui Chemicals) Driver's seat cushion pad |
| Mark X |
(Kenaf) Package tray |
| Prius |
(Ecoplastics) Scuff plate, driver's seat cushion |
| Lexus HS250h |
(Ecoplastics surface materials) Luggage trim, luggage door trim, rear combination lamp cover |
| (Ecoplastics injection molding) Cowl side trim, door scuff plate, tool box, finish plate |
| (Ecoplastics foaming material) Seat cushion (driver's seat, front occupant's seat) |
| (Kenaf fiber board material) Package tray |
| Lexus IS250C |
(Kenaf) quarter trim ornament |
| Lexus RX450h/350 |
(Kenaf) Front/rear seat back board |
Mitsubishi
Motors |
i-MiEV |
(Bamboo fiber and polybutylene succinate) Tailgate trim |
Source: Toyota and Mitsubishi Motors' environmental information by model, new car announcement materials, on-line catalogs, Toyota Boshoku Press Release 2009.11.16
Use of recycled materials used in new passenger cars introduced by Japanese automakers in Japanese markets in 2009
| |
Parts where recycled materials are used |
| Toyota |
SAI |
(RSPP: Recycled sound-proofing product) Dashboard silencer, filling material. (PET recycled felt) Floor carpet, cowl silencer. (Recycled polypropylene) Trunk side trim base, floor undercover. |
| Mark X |
(RSPP) Floor carpet, silencer, etc. (Recycled polypropylene) Engine undercover, front floor center cover, rear side member cover, etc. |
| Land Cruiser Prado |
(RSPP) Dash inner silencer. (Recycled PET) Door trim, deck side trim, floor carpet |
| Prius |
(RSPP) Floor silencer. (PET recycled felt) Roof silencer (other than L grade). (Recycled polypropylene) Engine undercover, rear seat side cover, front seat shield. |
| Wish |
(RSSP) Floor silencer, dashboard silencer (Recycled polypropylene) rear bumper seal. |
| Crown Majesta |
(PET recycled felt) Roof silencer, roof side garnish. (Recycled polypropylene) Engine undercover, rear floor side member cover, front floor center cover. |
| Lexus HS250h |
(RSPP) Dashboard silencer, filling material, etc. (PET recycled felt) Floor carpet, front door trim silencer, etc. (Recycled polypropylene) Luggage side trim base material, front floor cover, etc. |
| Lexus IS250C |
(RSPP) Floor silencer. (Recycled polypropylene) Engine undercover plate, rear floor side member cover, etc. |
| Lexus RX450h/350 |
(PET recycled felt) Roof silencer. (Recycled polypropylene) Engine undercover, rear floor side member cover, front floor center cover, etc. |
| Honda |
STEPWGN |
Splash shield, battery cover, insulator. |
| Insight |
Battery box, insulator. |
| Nissan |
Fuga |
Rear parcel shelf finisher, trunk side finisher, etc. |
| Skyline Crossover |
Battery box, door trim, etc. |
| Mazda |
Axela |
Under cover, etc. |
Mitsubishi
Motors |
i-MiEV |
Floor carpet, dashboard panel pad, ceiling insulator. |
| Suzuki |
Alto |
Tank lower cover, dashboard silencer, etc. |
| Kizashi |
Dashboard silencer, etc. |
Fuji Heavy
Industries |
Legacy |
(Collected and recycled material) Certain resin parts. (Waste cloths, recycled paper) Vibration- and sound-proofing materials. |
| (Note) |
Taken from model-based environmental information published by respective automakers. Toyota's RSPP (Recycled Sound-Proofing Products) is an automotive acoustic material made from urethanes and fibers recycled from ASR (Automobile Shredder Residue). |
Use of easily recyclable materials used in new passenger cars introduced by Japanese automakers in Japanese markets in 2009
| |
Parts where easily-recyclable materials are used |
| Toyota |
SAI |
(TSOP) Front bumper, rear bumper, instrument panel, console box, etc. (TPO) Steering wheel, driver's knee airbag. |
| Mark X |
(TSOP) Front/rear bumper covers, rocker molding, etc. (TPO) Back window molding, roof molding, door trim, etc. |
| Land Cruiser Prado |
(TSOP) Front/rear bumper covers, under cover, rocker molding, side step cover. (TPO) Cowl side seal, instrument panel surface. |
| Prius |
(TSOP) Bumper cover, front grille, molding rocker panel, pillar inner garnish. (TPO) Driver's SRS airbag. |
| Wish |
(TSOP) Front bumper, rear bumper, cowl louver, pillar garnish, back door frame garnish. (TPO) Windshield molding. |
| Crown Majesta |
(TSOP) Front bumper, rear bumper, rocker molding, lower absorber, lower grille. (TPO) Windshield upper molding, back window molding, door glass run. |
| Lexus HS250h |
(TSOP) Front bumper, rear bumper, instrument panel, console box, etc. (TPO) Door trim, etc. |
| Lexus IS250C |
(TSOP) Front bumper, rear bumper, rocker molding, front spoiler, bumper lower grille, front pillar garnish, etc. (TPO) Door trim lower surface, door trim pocket surface, quarter trim (upper, lower), tonneau board arm and leg |
| Lexus RX450h/350 |
(TSOP) Front/rear bumper, rocker molding, front pillar garnish, etc. (TPO) Front/rear door weather strip, etc. |
| Honda |
Use of PVC (poly vinyl chloride) in body sealers, exterior moldings, etc,
has been restricted to lower the chloride concentration in ASR to 1% or lower. |
| STEPWGN |
(Polypropylene, polyethylene and other thermoplastics) under coat, inner weather strip, window molding, airflow tube, opening trim, cowl top garnish, glove box, sun visor, seat surface, shift knob, door molding, door lining, bumper face, pillar garnish, mastic sealer, roof molding, etc. |
| Insight |
(Polypropylene, polyethylene and other thermoplastics) Under coat, inner weather strip, window molding, airflow tube, engine harness, opening trim, cowl top garnish, glove box, sun visor, seat surface, center console, door molding, door lining, bumper face, pillar garnish, mastic sealer, roof molding, etc. |
| Nissan |
Fuga |
Bumper, pillar garnish, engine undercover, air cleaner case, etc |
| Skyline Crossover |
Bumper, door finisher, instrument panel, pillar garnish, air cleaner case, etc |
| Mazda |
Axela |
(Thermoplastic resin) Bumper, interior material |
Mitsubishi
Motors |
i-MiEV |
Bumper, instrument panel, interior trim, etc. |
Fuji Heavy
Industries |
Legacy |
(Thermoplastic resin) Bumper, instrument panel, door trim, etc |
| (Notes) 1. |
Taken from model-based environmental information published by respective automakers. Suzuki has not disclosed exact locations of use. |
| 2. |
Toyota's TPO stands for Thermo Plastic Olefin. TSOP (Toyota Super Olefin Polymer) is a far more recyclable resin than the conventional composite polypropylene and is said to withstand repeated recycling. |
|
