The BMW Group’s Recycling and Dismantling Centre (RDC) marks its 30th anniversary, highlighting its pivotal role in advancing circularity within the automotive industry.
Since its inception in 1994, the RDC has pioneered processes for recycling vehicles, parts, and materials, sharing its expertise globally to foster a circular economy in automotive manufacturing.
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Each year, the RDC recycles thousands of vehicles, mainly pre-series models used for testing. Reusable components are salvaged, and recyclable materials such as metals and precious elements from components like catalytic converters are carefully separated. The Centre’s work informs BMW’s vehicle design, ensuring recyclability from the outset.
The RDC also leads the Car2Car project, which aims to increase the use of recycled materials in new vehicles, particularly steel, aluminium, copper, glass, and plastics. It has played a vital role in developing semi-automated dismantling processes to improve recycling efficiency.
The Centre’s contributions extend to the recycling of high-voltage batteries, critical as electric vehicle use expands. With a focus on innovative recycling methods, the RDC continues to shape the future of sustainable vehicle production.
Source: BMW Group Recycling and Dismantling Centre: 30 Years Leading Innovation in the Circular Economy
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