With all the attention in the world of green autos focused on how they’ll get around (will it be electric, biodiesel or even something wilder like solar?), car companies seem to be forgetting about the ways they can enhance the eco-friendliness of their exteriors and interiors. But the limited edition Eco Elise that Lotus debuted last year at the London Motor Show didn’t just give a nod to greener components, it revolved around them.

The Lotus Eco Elise isn’t the first foray that Lotus has had into the realm of more environmentally-aware autos, but the company is usually involved in a roundabout way, like manufacturing the chassis for the Tesla Roadster or finding one of their Lotus Exiges used to develop a wind-powered car. For the Eco Elise, Lotus attempted to make the Elise as green as possible—without changing the way it was fueled. And while it managed to slip under the radar for the most part, it’s remains an innovation.

Hemp, the eco-wonder plant, was used to make composite body panels and a spoiler and to make up elements of the trademark Lotus seats (although one car reviewer described sitting in them liking being surrounded by itchy old mens trousers). The upholstery on the seats is made from what Lotus describes as “eco wool”, which is ethically produced wool that hasn’t bee dyed (the sheep it’s sheared from are selected for their natural car-appropriate coloring). Underfoot, sisal comprises the carpeting as a natural abrasion-resistant material.

As final touches, the Lotus Eco Elise also includes solar panels on the roof and a significantly lighter design than the already-light Elise, which will help save fuel. Inside a green gear shift display (similar to the red shift light for optimum driving performance in the standard Elise) alerts drivers on how to drive for maximum fuel efficiency.

While a better fuel solution for our vehicles is crucial as gas shortages loom, the Eco Elise is an excellent reminder for car companies to consider every aspect of the vehicle (Lotus even assessed carbon miles of goods and opted for locally-grown or produced items). And the Eco Elise highlights how there are natural materials that can easily accomplish many of the goals of heavily-manufactured materials…even if they occasionally feel like scratchy work pants.

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