Its name is PU_PA EV, for pupa electric vehicle (the pupa is a transformation stage between a larva and a butterfly), and the lightweight concept car has been crafted with carbon fiber composites, polycarbonate resins and bio-derived polyester by Teijin Group, Tokyo, Japan. Weighing in at 437kg (963 pounds), the PU_PA EV’s proprietary components demonstrate the potential for vehicles and aircraft that can travel further on less fuel.

The concept car travels approximately 38 miles per hour and has a range of 62 miles per charge. Among its innovations are:

• Core structure of carbon fiber composite
• Windows of polycarbonate resin that absorb heat and weigh half as much as glass
• Molded modular parts
• Interiors made with bio-derived polyester
• Low noise tire cord made with Teonex® polyethylene naphthalate fiber
• Metal-toned Teflex® film used to replace chrome
• Cell Form™ two-dimensional, solar cell sheeting to power devices

The car is displayed in the Teijin Mirai Studio to increase awareness about the potential of such materials for future vehicle manufacture; no plans are underway to mass produce the PU_PA EV.