Japan shatters 85 years of prejudice against plant-based motor oils by unveiling a groundbreaking product made from 80% plants

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What if we told you there’s an eco-friendly motor oil that can compete with traditional products in the world of motorsport? That’s exactly what Idemitsu is offering with its Plantech Racing, the first plant-based, API-certified oil that promises to deliver top-tier performance while reducing the carbon footprint.

Once again, Japan surprises us with revolutionary technology—let’s take a closer look at this innovating engine oil that could redefine the future of motorsports and save the passion for petrol heads.

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IDEMITSU IFG Plantech Racing: a revolutionary oil for engines and the planet

Launched in December 2024, the IDEMITSU IFG Plantech Racing oil is a game-changer. Made with over 80% plant-based raw materials (including palm oil sourced from non-deforested areas), it combines power with environmental responsibility. It’s the first API SP-certified oil designed to meet the rigorous demands of racing competitions.
Using advanced technology called Molybdenum Ester Technology, this oil reduces power loss caused by piston friction while offering enhanced protection thanks to plant-derived high-viscosity compounds. Tested during the iconic Suzuka Super Taikyu endurance race, it proved its robustness in extreme conditions. Used by the Mazda Spirit Racing team, its adoption highlights its reliability and its key role in the pursuit of carbon-neutral technologies.

IDEMITSU IFG Plantech Racing
IDEMITSU IFG Plantech Racing

Impressive performance figures

If words aren’t enough to convince you, the numbers certainly will. Compared to a standard oil already sold by the Japanese company Idemitsu like IDEMITSU IFG7Plantech Racing delivers:

  • 194% improved durability
  • 169% enhanced engine protection
  • 156% reduced oil consumption
  • 113% improved fuel economy thanks to optimized power output

This engine oil offers better performance in all areas: durability, cleanliness, and fuel consumption. And that’s not all: in terms of sustainability, the carbon footprint is reduced by 82% compared to traditional mineral oils. This is a clear advantage that shows eco-friendly motorsport is not inherently at odds with internal combustion engines.

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A key step for the future of eco-responsible racing

This initiative is more than just about motor oil; it’s part of a broader effort to transform the motorsports industry. The goal is clear: to prove that sustainability and competition can go hand in hand. By using only RSPO-certified vegetable oils and bearing the Biomass Mark label, Idemitsu sets a high standard for its competitors. This comes at a time when major motorsport organizations are striving to minimize their carbon footprint, as seen with Formula 1’s NET ZERO 2030 project. This product is already available in Asia, including Australia—the home of the V8 Supercars Championship, renowned for endurance races like the Bathurst 1000. Idemitsu plans to expand Plantech Racing’s availability to other markets, such as the United States and Brazil, reinforcing its ambition to revolutionize motorsport while respecting the planet.

Formula 1 Net Zero 2030 Project
Formula 1 Net Zero 2030 Project

This article explores how the plant-based motor oil Plantech Racing, introduced by Idemitsu, pushes the boundaries of technology to combine sustainability with performance. With impressive numbers and proven race results, Idemitsu demonstrates that eco-friendly innovation can transform motorsport without compromising power or reliability.

Source: Idemitsu

Adrien Conges
Adrien Conges
I grew up near Magny-Cours, an old Formula 1 circuit in France so I've been passionate about motorsport and automobiles since childhood. I currently live in Bordeaux, France and I'm still waiting for Ferrari to win a 17th F1 constructors' title.

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