Toronto, Ontario — Kia has reportedly introduced a new EV3 concept vehicle, known as the Study Car, which uses apples and mushrooms in the development process.
As originally noted by Carscoops, the study electric vehicle incorporates 22 recycling and natural material technologies to replace 69 parts from the EV3.
Specifically, plastic recovered from scrapped vehicles was used to make the concept vehicle’s bumpers and liftgate.
Carscoops continued that these recycled materials are joined by a composite material that uses natural fibres and organic polymers.
Additionally, the centre console and steering wheel of the vehicles are covered in apple skin, while the wireless smartphone charger is wrapped in mushroom waste-based leather.
Finally, the eco-friendly door trim and dashboard uses recycled plastic from materials like water bottles.
The Study Car was recently shown at the Namyang Research Center during the Eco-Friendly Materials and Vehicle Exhibition in South Korea.
An unnamed spokesperson for Kia commented that “the EV3 Study Car is the result of our responsible research toward sustainable resource circulation. We will continue to expand and develop low-carbon and recycled material technologies to secure the eco-friendliness of key vehicle materials.”
