Billy Covington Subaru has been known for its commitment to producing cars that are not only high-performing but also eco-friendly. One of the ways the company has demonstrated this commitment is through their use of soy-based wiring insulation. But when exactly did Subaru start using soy wiring, and why?
The Challenges with Traditional Wiring
Before the introduction of soy-based wiring, cars typically used wiring insulation made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). While PVC was an inexpensive and durable material, it was not environmentally friendly. PVC was made from petrochemicals, and its production was a major source of pollution. Furthermore, PVC wiring insulation emitted toxic fumes when burned, posing a health hazard in the event of a fire.
The Benefits of Soy-Based Wiring
To address these issues, Subaru made the switch to soy-based wiring insulation. Soy-based insulation is made from a renewable resource, making it a much more sustainable alternative to PVC. Soy is also biodegradable, reducing the environmental impact of car parts disposal.
But soy-based insulation isn’t just good for the environment – it also has other benefits. Soy-based wiring is more heat-resistant than traditional PVC insulation, making it less likely to crack and fail over time. This makes for more reliable and longer-lasting car parts. Soy-based insulation also has a better smell than PVC, which makes the interior of a car more pleasant and comfortable for passengers.
Introducing Soy-Based Wiring in Subarus
Subaru began using soy-based wiring insulation in their cars in 2007. At first, they only used the new insulation in a small number of models, but they quickly expanded its use across their entire lineup.
The introduction of soy-based wiring was just one part of Subaru’s larger initiative to create sustainable and eco-friendly car parts. The company also used other green technology such as waterborne paints and recyclable materials in the production of their cars.
The Impact on Subaru and their Reputation
Subaru’s use of soy-based wiring insulation helped cement their reputation as an eco-friendly car manufacturer. The company’s commitment to sustainability has been recognized by various organizations, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which has given Subaru multiple awards for their green initiatives.
The switch to soy-based wiring insulation also had practical benefits for Subaru. The new insulation was more reliable and longer-lasting than traditional PVC insulation, reducing the need for costly repairs and replacements. Soy-based insulation also had a better smell than PVC, which made for a more pleasant driving experience.
FAQ
Q: Is soy-based wiring insulation only used in Subarus?
A: No, other car manufacturers have also made the switch to soy-based wiring insulation.
Q: Does soy-based insulation cost more than traditional PVC insulation?
A: Yes, soy-based insulation is more expensive than PVC insulation. However, the benefits of soy-based insulation, such as its sustainability and longer lifespan, often make up for the higher cost.
Q: Is soy-based insulation safe for people with soy allergies?
A: The level of allergens in soy-based insulation is very low, and it is unlikely to cause a reaction in people with soy allergies.
Conclusion
Subaru’s use of soy-based wiring insulation is just one example of their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By making the switch from PVC to soy, Subaru improved the reliability and lifespan of their car parts while also reducing their environmental impact. As other manufacturers follow suit and adopt similar practices, the automotive industry is slowly but surely becoming more sustainable.
