Implementation of recycled plastic in the vehicle components

Purpose and goal

A consortium with all the important partners in the value chain from recyclers, material suppliers, component manufacturers and vehicle manufacturers has been consolidated in accordance with the project´s goal for step 1. A plan has been developed with the partners; how recycled plastics from different sources can be used, upgraded and evaluated as raw material in selected vehicle components. Needs, challenges and potential solutions have been identified. A project plan for step 2 has been developed in collaboration with the partners.

Expected results and effects

The project has identified recyclers, material suppliers and mapped material flows with secondary plastics with high potential for use in vehicle components. Material suppliers who can upgrade the plastic to meet the requirements of the automotive industry have been linked to the project. Vehicle components in which recycled plastics could be used have been identified and possible material concepts. A strategy for step 2 has been developed to develop new solutions and optimize the process steps in component manufacturing. The needs and challenges of the actors have been identified.

Planned approach and implementation

The manufactures of vehicle components had a active role in the project proposing vehicle components for the pilot trials and material concepts, they have also proposed suppliers of recycled plastic to the consortium. Volvo Cars has contributed to the mapping of material suppliers and the market analysis. Volvo had many contacts with customers, analyzed their needs and attitudes to recycled plastic in cars. They have also talked with several other vehicle manufacturers about their approach to recycled plastic in components.