Honda Motor has adopted Mitsubishi Chemical’s bio-based engineering plastic, DURABIO, for the colored bodywork and windshield of its X-ADV motorcycles sold in Japan. DURABIO is made from isosorbide, a renewable plant-derived raw material, and provides the toughness and features required for motorcycle bodywork parts. The plastic can be given a glossy, sophisticated look by adding colorants, eliminating the need for conventional painting. This marks the first use of DURABIO for paintless bodywork for motorcycles.
DURABIO has several benefits, including reducing the consumption of petroleum, a finite non-renewable resource, and contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases. The plastic also exhibits outstanding toughness, scratch resistance, and color development properties, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The Mitsubishi Chemical Group continues to develop DURABIO to deliver high-value-added products and drive the realization of a sustainable society.