Japan Introduces the World’s First Plant-Based Motor Oil for Racing

The world’s 1st plant-based motor oil is suitable for racing with 194% more protection.

A Japanese company has launched a groundbreaking racing engine oil that could change the way we think about sustainability in high-performance vehicles. Named Idemitsu IFG Plantech Racing, this innovative oil is made from over 80 percent plant-based materials and meets the stringent standards of the American Petroleum Institute’s SP certification. 

The product seamlessly combines environmental consciousness with top-tier racing performance. Idemitsu Kosan, a Tokyo-based company, is behind this breakthrough.

What makes this oil stand out? The engine oil uses sustainably sourced palm oil as its base, alongside esters from rapeseed and sunflower oils, to deliver high performance while significantly reducing environmental impact. 

According to the company, the carbon footprint of Idemitsu IFG Plantech is 82 percent lower than conventional mineral oils. This figure, based on estimates from the Japan LP Gas Association, accounts for the entire lifecycle of the product—from production to disposal.

“We want to push the boundaries of what’s possible in both sustainability and performance,” the company shared in a statement.

This plant-based motor oil isn’t just environmentally friendly—it also delivers exceptional results in demanding conditions. Rigorous testing by Idemitsu revealed; 194% greater toughness compared to other flagship oils, ensuring durability during high-stress scenarios. 50% lower friction, which translates to reduced power loss and better fuel efficiency. 169% enhanced protection for critical engine components. 124% improved piston cleanliness, helping engines run smoothly and efficiently.

The plant-based motor oil proved its worth in the real world, too. During the Super Taikyu Series, a competitive pro-am racing event, Mazda Spirit Racing’s Roadster CNF concept car ran on Idemitsu IFG Plantech Racing oil for an intense five-hour race. The oil performed flawlessly, solidifying its place as a game-changer in the racing world.

The science behind this oil is as impressive as its performance. Idemitsu uses a proprietary blending process called Molybdenum Ester Technology. This combines molybdenum, which reduces friction, with high-viscosity plant-based esters that create a thicker, more protective oil film. The result is an engine oil that not only improves performance but also reduces wear and tear on crucial components.

“Our technology blends the best of innovation and environmental responsibility,” said a representative from Idemitsu. “Idemitsu IFG Plantech Racing truly embodies our brand’s mission: enhancing performance while protecting the planet.”

Idemitsu Kosan has introduced this product as part of its elite flagship category, surpassing even its earlier top-tier IFG 7 variant. The company believes this new category reflects the future of sustainable automotive solutions, particularly in high-performance settings like racing.

The initial rollout of Idemitsu IFG Plantech Racing is targeted at customers in Thailand, Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia through the company’s online store. Plans to expand availability to the United States, Brazil, Mexico, the UAE, China, India, and other regions are already underway. The company promises to announce specific dates for these markets soon.

The introduction of plant-based motor oil isn’t just about racing; it’s a glimpse into how the automotive industry can embrace sustainability without sacrificing performance. By showcasing the potential of plant-based motor oil in extreme conditions, Idemitsu is paving the way for the broader adoption of eco-friendly lubricants across everyday vehicles.

This innovation demonstrates that high performance and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. As more companies follow suit, plant-based solutions may become a standard feature in the quest to reduce the automotive industry’s carbon footprint.