Toyota Adopts DuPont Renewably Sourced Material for its New Model "SAI®"

Nearly 60 Percent of the Interior Surfaces of "SAI®" Incorporate Bio-based Materials Including DuPont™ Sorona® Renewably Sourced Fiber

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Tokyo, Japan (Vocus) January 13, 2010

DuPont announced that fibers made from DuPont™ Sorona® renewably sourced polymer were adopted as materials for the ceiling surface skin, sun visor and pillar garnish of Toyota’s new model, SAI®. DuPont™ Sorona® fibers also were adopted as materials for optional floor mats sold under the Toyota brand.

The new model SAI®, launched last month, is an intensively ecological "compact luxury car" equipped with an overwhelming percentage of eco-plastics made from plant-based materials which comprise approximately 60 percent of the car’s internal surface area. The new car will be on sale through dealerships in Japan.

"Both DuPont and Toyota provide innovation that results in positive contributions to the lives of our customers and in an environmentally sustainable manner. We are committed to bringing renewable materials to companies like Toyota, which has a strong sustainability intention," said John P. Ranieri, vice president -- DuPont BioMaterials Group.

DuPont™ Sorona® polymer is a PTT resin made from a copolymerization of 1,3-propanediol, which is derived from plant sugar using a DuPont biotechnological fermentation process, and terephthalic acid. Using Sorona® polymer will help reduce carbon dioxide emissions, compared to using other petroleum-based materials which are used for conventional auto interior parts. This also will contribute to measures against global warming and to saving depletable resources.

PTT fibers made from Sorona® polymer meet strict performance requirements for automotive use while having rich and soft texture and good hand-feel.

The adoption reflects the company’s recently announced commitment to focus on meeting four emerging global trends, one of which is decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.

DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.

DuPont™ and Sorona® are trademarks or registered trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates.
SAI® is a registered trademark of Toyota Motor Corporation.

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