Jose Cuervo and Ford Motor Company plan to use agave plant byproduct to develop sustainable bioplastic material for use in vehicles, giving the base ingredient of tequila a second chance at usefulness. The two companies are testing the bioplastic use for interior and exterior components, such as wiring harnesses, HVAC units and storage bins. Initial assessment found the material holds promise because of its durable and aesthetic qualities.

“There are about 400 pounds of plastic on a typical car,” said Debbie Mielewski, Ford Senior Technical Leader, Sustainable Research Department. “Our job is to find the right place for a green composite like this to help our impact on the planet,” she said.