Matchbox is launching a series of toy cars based on real-life electric vehicles and making some using recycled materials as part of a global relaunch. The first will be a mini version of the Tesla Roadster and will be followed by other models along with scaled-down charging stations. The toymaker wants to raise awareness among children of the environmental impact of motoring. Other firms, including Lego, are also bringing out more sustainable toys. The formerly UK-based Matchbox, which is now owned by US toymaker Mattel, was created in 1953 and sells more than 40 million die-cast vehicles each year. Mattel, which also owns the Hot Wheels brand, plans to use 100% recycled, recyclable or bio-based plastic materials in the manufacturing of all its products and packaging by 2030. Lego has said it will start replacing plastic packaging with paper bags this year as the toy brick maker aims to become more sustainable. The Danish company said it had been prompted by letters from children asking it to remove the single-use plastic bags.
