Automobile Magazine (Enlarge photo)

11/07/2008 04:18. While Lotus 's previous attempt at a green car - the Exige 265 - focused mostly on biofuels, their new Eco Elise concept, debuting at the London motor show, showcases the company's work with green materials.

In an attempt to maximize the use of recyclable materials, engineers incorporated hemp, wool, and sisal throughout the Eco Elise. Not surprisingly, the car uses a considerable amount of woven hemp as interior trim, using the material not only on the center console and dashboard but on the seats as well.

Perhaps more important is the use of recyclable materials on the car's exterior. A number of body panels on the Eco Elise are made of a hemp-based composite. Lotus claims the hemp fiber itself is quite strong and durable, but the material's limited development forced the use of... // Automobile Magazine