Dearborn, Michigan -- The 2011 Ford Explorer is 85 percent recyclable, Ford claims in a 5 Aug company statement.
Ford says the Explorer uses 40-percent soya-based polyurethane foam in its seat cushions and seatbacks, adding that the company is committed to using soya-based PU foam in nearly 100 percent of its North American vehicle lineup by the end of 2010.
According to the statement, Soya-based PU foam has helped Ford reduce its annual petroleum oil usage by more than 10 500 barrels, reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by 11 million lbs (4.9 kilotonnes) and is up to 24 percent more renewable than petroleum-based foam.
Ford said the reduction in CO2 emissions is equivalent to the amount of CO2 produced by 965 typical American household every year.
"By increasing the use of recycled or renewable content in our vehicles whenever possible, Ford is helping reduce waste to landfills by millions of pounds, and the new Explorer is no exception," said Amy Marentic, group marketing manager, Ford Motor Company.
"We believe customers will value these green features, as they help the environment without sacrificing the Explorer's capability, utility and safety," she added. (RD)
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