Toy cars get eco makeover to inspire children

A Matchbox's Tesla Roadster die-cast toy made from recyclable materials is pictured in this undated photo obtained by Reuters on April 14, 2021. Mattel/Handout via REUTERS

LONDON (Reuters) - Matchbox is launching a new series of toy cars based on real-life electric and hybrid vehicles, in a bid to make its miniatures more sustainable and to raise awareness among children of the environmental impact of motoring.

The first model off the production line is a scaled-down version of the Tesla Roadster, which will be joined by toys based on cars made by Nissan, Toyota and BMW. Electric charging stations will also go on sale this year.