Eindhoven University Students Make Car from Natural Materials

Students of the Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands have unveiled a car that they claim is made entirely of bio-composite materials. Called Lina, the car is a lightweight four-seater with the exterior body, a chassis, and interiors that have been made from a number of natural and biodegradable substances.

The chassis has a structure similar to that of a honeycomb and is fashioned from bio-composite and bio-plastic materials obtained from sugar beets. The exterior needs to be really tough and it comprises sheets of flax-based bio-composite. The strength is similar to that of fiberglass, but of course, the production process of this material is more sustainable manufactured. The body too is made of flax. From the efficiency standpoint, the Lina is highly energy-efficient and is powered by a set of modular batteries.

The car is highly lightweight with a kerb weight of 300-kilograms. It can attain a maximum speed of 50 mph, and has even been certified by the Netherlands Vehicle Authority as “roadworthy”. The car can even be termed as a “smart” car as it can be unlocked using a smartphone.

The team of students who were involved in the project presented the car at the Shell Eco marathon which was held in London from 25 till 28 May.