From Car to Car: Circular Economy in Vehicle Manufacturing
The EU Commission intends to significantly raise the share of recycled plastics in vehicles with the planned End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation (ELV). From 2031, the plastic content in vehicles should consist of 25% post-consumer recycled materials (PCR), with a quarter of that coming from end-of-life vehicles. This requirement poses significant challenges for manufacturers. Through the PÖPPELMANN blue initiative, we have been addressing this issue for a long time and can deliver initial product solutions. The attachment consoles from the Pöppelmann K-TECH division, which are already being produced in series, are made of 100% recycled plastic from decommissioned vehicles—setting benchmarks in circular economy within automotive manufacturing.
Closing Circuits – with Genuine PCR from End-of-Life Vehicles
The attachment consoles that serve as jack mounts in vehicles are entirely produced from plastics sourced from end-of-life cars. The material is processed and specified for series production. Stringent material tests and extensive evaluations ensure the usual high K-TECH quality. The results are convincing: The PCR attachment consoles demonstrate unrestricted performance. In comparison to corresponding components made from virgin materials, up to 71% less greenhouse gas emissions (GHG emissions) are produced, calculated from raw material extraction to leaving the factory gate (cradle-to-gate).
“Many are still searching for solutions – we have them ready for series production,” says Frank Schockemöhle, Head of Technology Management at Pöppelmann K-TECH®. “Our attachment consoles are a prime example of genuine circular economy in automotive construction. They demonstrate that compliance with the planned ELV requirements is already achievable today. With our extensive plastics expertise in the field of recyclates, we support our customers early on in securing a future-proof position—while actively contributing to climate protection and resource conservation.”
Act Together Now – K-TECH Provides Comprehensive Advice
In relation to the ELV regulation, Pöppelmann K-TECH supports customers from the automotive segment in providing solutions that meet high demands. Under the motto “Now. Close the Loops.”, the plastics specialist informs about backgrounds, technologies, and benefits for the automotive industry on a dedicated landing page. Interested OEMs, developers, and purchasing teams can directly get in touch there and receive advice on tailor-made solutions.
Climate Strategy with Measurable Impact
The use of end-of-life vehicle plastic is no coincidence but part of a comprehensive climate strategy from the plastics specialist based in Lohne. The Pöppelmann Group has set ambitious climate goals for 2030, aligned with the internationally recognised standard of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). At the core is the circular economy, as the use of recyclates is considered the most effective lever for reducing GHG emissions.
Currently, Pöppelmann processes around 40% PCR and a total of approximately 50% recyclates. This share is set to increase to 60% by 2030. Close partnerships with European suppliers and in-house compounding ensure a reliable supply of high-quality secondary raw materials. With the recently opened technical centre in Lohne, the plastics specialist is specifically driving the development of new recyclates and processes. As a result, future-oriented products are being created that are often ahead of their time.
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The attachment consoles, which are used as jack mounts in vehicles, are fully made from plastics sourced from end-of-life cars.
