In high-performance engines, sustainability hasn’t usually been part of the conversation. However, that’s beginning to change. Japanese oil company Idemitsu is leading the charge with a breakthrough: the world’s first plant-based engine oil designed for motorsport. This innovation proves that engine power and environmental care can go hand in hand.
More than just a green idea, this development challenges how we think about what we put into our engines—and what it costs the planet.
The Birth of a Plant-Based Performance Oil
Idemitsu’s new oil, IFG Plantech Racing, is made from more than 80% plant-derived ingredients. These include rapeseed, sunflower, and RSPO-certified palm oil. Compared to conventional oils made from crude oil, this is a major shift toward sustainability.
What’s more, this plant-based engine oil doesn’t just meet eco-friendly goals—it performs. It passed rigorous testing under extreme racing conditions and earned the API SP certification, which sets a high standard for cleanliness, durability, and efficiency.
Why Engine Oil Affects the Environment
Although most people rarely think about engine oil, its environmental impact is significant. In fact, used motor oil is one of the most harmful types of automotive waste:
- A single gallon can pollute up to a million gallons of water
- It contains toxins, heavy metals, and harmful additives
- When dumped or burned, it can poison soil and harm wildlife
Furthermore, producing petroleum-based oils adds to global carbon emissions. From drilling to refining, the environmental cost is high. That’s why alternatives like plant-based engine oil are essential.
Performance Without Compromise
It’s easy to assume that “plant-based” means lower performance. However, Idemitsu’s tests show the opposite. Their oil delivers:
- 50% less engine friction
- Better piston cleanliness
- Longer oil life
- Up to 82% lower CO₂ emissions than mineral oil
As a result, engines run smoother, cleaner, and more efficiently. Even during demanding motorsport events, this oil held up under pressure. It was used successfully by Mazda Spirit Racing in endurance races—without the need for engine modifications.
Currently, it’s being sold in Japan, Thailand, and Australia, and global rollout is on the way.
Why This Isn’t Just About Racing
Racing has always been a testing ground for tomorrow’s technology. Innovations that prove themselves on the track often end up in everyday vehicles.
That’s exactly why plant-based engine oil matters. It’s a realistic, scalable way to cut pollution now, even as we shift toward electric vehicles. While EVs are growing fast, most cars on the road still rely on combustion engines. Solutions like this are key to making those engines cleaner in the meantime.
Final Thoughts
“Vegan oil for race cars” may sound like a punchline—but it’s not. Idemitsu’s innovation is practical, powerful, and planet-friendly. By moving away from fossil-based oil, they’ve shown that it’s possible to protect engines and the environment at the same time.
As industries work to reduce emissions, small changes under the hood can lead to big changes across the globe. This isn’t just better oil—it’s a better future.
