Our Commitment to the Future – Responsible Manufacturing and the HS 250h

From the onset, the HS 250h was developed to showcase Lexus' industry-leading environmentally friendly technology. The result of our efforts extends far beyond harmful emissions and fuel consumption reduction; several of our accomplishments are listed below:
Plant-derived Materials: Lexus has taken great strides toward increasing the use of natural materials in both hybrid and non-hybrid vehicles. In fact, over 30% of the HS 250’s interior and trunk plastics are made from plant-derived materials. Kenaf, a highly sustainable grass plant similar to bamboo, is used inside the doors, seatbacks and rear parcel shelf. The seat foam of the HS is produced using oil derived from castor seeds. These innovations contribute to a 33% reduction in harmful CO2 over the life cycle of the HS 250h.

Recyclability: In addition to the environmental impact of vehicle production, Lexus designs vehicles with a careful eye on how they will one day be disposed. To that end, over 85% of the HS 250h is recyclable, including both its hybrid and conventional accessory batteries.

Reusing Vehicle Waste: When seat cushions, floor mats and roof liners are made, the leftover pieces are used as sound insulation in the doors, roof, floor and chassis. Any extra waste is burned in an incinerator with 85% thermal efficiency. This process generates electricity and steam which help power the manufacturing process. Our engineers also developed a special plastic called TSOP that can be recycled indefinitely. Used in everything from bumpers to dashboards, the TSOP formula has been made available to every auto manufacturer.

Reducing Energy and Water Usage: Lexus, as part of Toyota Motor Sales., USA, Inc., is involved in a company-wide effort to reduce energy and water usage in all operations. By fiscal year 2011, the company plans to reduce energy consumption of U.S. facilities by 18% when compared to fiscal year 2001. In fact, we have already reduced our consumption by 27% over the past 10 years.

Zero Landfill Status: Every Lexus manufacturing site maintains near zero-landfill status, meaning that 98% of manufacturing waste is recycled, repurposed or used to generate additional energy. Even more impressive, the U.S. sales headquarters campus for Lexus has achieved zero-landfill status.