Porsche introduces race car with hemp body

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In Germany, Porsche is using hemp within the body of one of its race cars.

Porsche’s 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport uses a composite made from organic hemp and flax fibers instead of the traditional carbon fiber/polymer resin material. According to the luxury sports car maker, the material is similar in weight and stiffness but is more environmentally friendly.

A $150,000 Trackday model of the Cayman GT4 is available, while a higher-performing, competition version will set you back $175,000. The company has not indicated if it might use the composite material in any of its consumer models.

Henry Ford reportedly produced a model car with body material made from cellulose from hemp, wheat, and soybeans, although the specs have since been lost.