Ford, Jose Cuervo to make car parts from tequila byproducts [Video]

Experiments are underway to explore the potential applications for agave fibers.

Ford has teamed with Jose Cuervo to experiment with bioplastics and other materials based on agave fibers.

After growing for at least seven years, the plants are harvested and the hearts ground for sap that can be fermented and distilled into tequila. Jose Cuervo uses a portion of the remaining fibers as compost. The material is also said to be used by local artisans and for agave paper.

Ford researchers are now combining the fibers with plastics to create composites that can potentially be used for vehicles. Tests are focusing on durability and heat resistance, determining if the composite can be used for interior storage bins, wiring harnesses or other components.

The automaker suggests initial trials are promising, indicating acceptable durability and aesthetic qualities.

"As a leader in the sustainability space, we are developing new technologies to efficiently employ discarded materials and fibers, while potentially reducing the use of petrochemicals and light-weighting our vehicles for desired fuel economy," said Ford's senior technical leader of sustainability research, Debbie Mielewski.

Ford already uses eight different plant-based materials in its vehicles. The list includes soy foam, castor oil, wheat straw, kenaf fiber, cellulose, wood, coconut fiber and rice hulls.