Researchers based at a university have created an environmentally-friendly race car with tyres made from potatoes and brake pads from cashew nut shells.

Eco One is the idea of WMG, a provider of innovative solutions to industry based at the University of Warwick.

Virtually the whole of this car, capable of speeds in excess of 125mph, is made from bio-degradable or recyclable materials, which is pretty amazing in itself. The project manager says his aim is to end up with a race car that's 95 per cent biodegradable or recyclable.

"If we can build a high-performance car that can virtually be grown from seed, just imagine what's possible for the average family car."

It will be at the Sexy Green Car Show alongside green offerings from major names in the motor industry at the Eden Project in Cornwall from Friday.

I can't imagine the guys in the various Formula 1 teams quaking in their boots just yet though...