Ford is teaming up with tequila maker Jose Cuervo to produce car parts from the waste materials that are produced from the drink making process.

The companies are looking into whether agave a by-product left over after tequila is made could be used to develop more sustainable bioplastics to employ in Ford vehicles. Testing is now taking place of the material to see if it is suitable for use in vehicle interior and exterior components such as wiring harnesses, HVAC units, and storage bins. Initial test have proved very promising and it is thought the material has the potential to reduce energy consumption, as well as decreasing petrochemical use and the overall impact of vehicle production on the environment.

“This collaboration brings two great companies together to develop innovative, earth-conscious materials,” said Sonia Espinola, director of heritage for Cuervo.

Ford currently uses eight sustainable-based materials in its vehicles including soy foam, castor oil, wheat straw, kenaf fibre, cellulose, wood, coconut fibre, and rice hulls. These materials are used to replace the typical 400 lbs of plastic found in a modern car.