Audi announced a new project for its Audi Q4 e-tron vehicle that will see it manufactured with recycled glass as part of a shift towards a closed material cycle. The brand is partnering with Reiling Glas Recycling, Saint-Gobain Glass and Saint-Gobain Sekurit to recycle the car glass into new product for the aforementioned vehicle. This will reduce the reliance on virgin materials and help direct the company towards more sustainable manufacturing procedures.
Head of Procurement Strategy Marco Philippi commented on the new initiative saying, "Our goal is to use secondary materials everywhere it is technically possible and economically reasonable to do so. We’re working on introducing materials we have direct access to into closed circuits. As of now, for example, old car glazing is not being used to produce new car windows. We want to change that."
Recycled Glass Vehicle Designs
The Audi Q4 e-tron Will Feature Recycled Glass in the Future
Trend Themes
1. Recycled Glass Vehicles - Manufacturing vehicles with recycled glass in order to reduce reliance on virgin materials and promote sustainable manufacturing procedures.
2. Closed Material Cycle - Creating a closed material cycle that uses secondary materials wherever it is technically possible and economically reasonable to do so.
3. Direct Access Secondary Materials - Introducing secondary materials into closed circuits, such as using old car glazing to produce new car windows.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - The automotive industry can benefit from this trend by promoting their commitment to sustainability by utilizing recycled materials in their cars.
2. Glass Recycling - The glass recycling industry can capitalize on this trend by partnering with car manufacturers to help them recycle car glass into new products.
3. Sustainable Manufacturing - The sustainable manufacturing industry can use this trend as an example of how closed material cycles can promote sustainable procedures and reduce reliance on virgin materials.