Ford’s engineers based in Cologne, Germany, have embarked on an innovative research project with the potential to significantly reduce the automotive industry’s environmental impact. The focus of their study is the utilization of the 7 million tons of waste generated annually from pruning olive trees, specifically exploring the possibility of repurposing this agricultural byproduct into durable auto part prototypes. This groundbreaking initiative is a step towards achieving Ford’s ambition of incorporating more recycled and renewable content into its vehicles, aligning with broader sustainability goals.

The research is part of the COMPOlive project, aiming to showcase the benefits of integrating materials derived from recycled and renewable sources into automotive components. The experiment involved using waste from olive groves in Andalusia, Spain — the world’s leading olive oil production region. The team successfully created prototype parts comprising 40% olive tree fibers and 60% recycled polypropylene plastic. This innovative composite was then heated and injection moulded to form specific auto parts.

This initiative is not Ford’s first foray into sustainable material research. The company has a history of pioneering the use of eco-friendly materials in its vehicles. Previous successes include the introduction of industry-first soybean-based foam seats and headrests, the incorporation of post-consumer recycled materials such as yogurt cups in the Ford Mustang Mach-E frunk insert, and the utilization of recycled ocean plastic in wiring harness clips for the Ford Bronco Sport.

The use of olive tree fibers not only promises to create lighter automotive parts but also aims to reduce plastic usage, thereby decreasing the carbon footprint associated with auto part production. This research underscores Ford’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its ongoing efforts to explore and implement sustainable solutions within the automotive sector.