When it comes to sustainability, you'd be surprised how much work automakers have to do to ensure that every component of the final product doesn't negatively impact the environment. Europeans seem to be at the forefront of showing off how they build a completely clean car. The sole purpose of the BMW i Vision Circular Concept is to show how it can recycle materials without sacrificing luxury. The Mini Strip concept also gave us tips on how to use recycled materials in a minimalist way to create quirky and basic hatchbacks, the stunning Polestar Concept 02 is a great example of how recycled polyester can be Still brings clean and quality interior finishes. Now, Mercedes wants to get in on the action, promising some impressive numbers over the next decade.
Mercedes-Benz aims to be the market leader in sustainability with its young electric EQ range. With the unveiling of the EQXX, we saw how far it can push the concept of sustainability in terms of interior design. The German company has now revealed that elements of the research will now be introduced into the production car.
Mercedes-Benz wants all of its cars to be carbon neutral by 2039, ahead of the EU's 2050 legislative requirement, so sees this announcement as a small step towards its huge end goal. We can also expect to see more of these materials added to the configurator in the coming years, given that the company will continue to invest in R&D of recycled components.
UBQ is a plastic-based upcycled material that will now be installed in all Mercedes EQS and EQE models. These materials are combined by collecting household waste and transformed into cable ducts. Ultimately, the company hopes to expand its applications to underbody panels, wheel arch liners and hoods.
How about the surfaces you interact with in the car? Mercedes-Benz explained that its sustainability journey doesn't limit its ability to create luxurious interiors. Starting next year, it will work with suppliers of genuine leather that practice its cultivation sustainably.All prospective tanneries must also be officially certified by the Leather working group if they are to be considered suppliers.
If you're not too keen on letting animals give their lives to cover your seats, Mercedes-Benz is offering a synthetic leather that uses powdered cactus fibers and a biotech-sourced fungal mycelium finish. The brand says these are still being researched and there is no indication of when they will be available.
Its current line of artificial synthetic leather interiors, used to cover everything from the seats to the headliner, is largely made from recycled materials.
As for other coverings, Mercedes-Benz says this is already available in its production cars. Floor coverings on the EQS are made from nylon yarn sourced from recycled carpets and fishing nets. Some of its synthetic fabrics are made from 100% recycled PET bottles.
Looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz has spared no effort in sustainable development. Using the power of chemical recycling of used tires, it will introduce high-performance painted plastic door handles. CO2-based foam will also be used for rear seat cushioning. Finally, the brand details silk and bamboo fiber rugs made using biotechnology for upholstery.
As for the manufacture of cars, Mercedes-Benz said its aluminum and steel production benefited from a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions due to modifications to its supply chain. By 2025, all of its steel will be made carbon-free using hydrogen in the manufacturing process compared to current coking coal. The Mercedes-AMG SL will introduce fully recycled aluminium components.
Post time: Apr-08-2022