Automotive Engineering - October 2022

Overview

The October 2022 edition of Automotive Engineering focuses on the pressing themes of sustainability and electrification within the automotive industry, particularly in the context of electric vehicles (EVs) and their components. The issue highlights the importance of recycling, innovative technologies, and the evolving landscape of sustainability practices among manufacturers and suppliers.

Key Themes and Highlights:

1. Recycling and Materials Reuse: The issue opens with a compelling narrative from a visit to Huron Valley Metals, a major scrap yard and recycling facility. The author reflects on the significance of recyclability in product design, particularly in the automotive sector. The stark contrast between the high recycling rates of metals like steel and aluminum and the dismal 5% recycling rate for plastics in the U.S. underscores the need for improved public awareness and infrastructure for recycling. The article emphasizes that effective materials recycling deserves as much attention as emissions reduction, especially as the industry shifts towards electrification.

2. Sustainability as a Core Principle: Sustainability is presented as a central theme, defined as living responsibly and maximizing the use of manufactured products. The issue discusses how businesses are increasingly integrating sustainability into their core strategies, driven by pressures from investors, regulators, and consumers. The introduction of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol’s Scope 3 emissions standard is highlighted as a significant development that will impact companies across the supply chain. Industry leaders, such as Giulio Ornella from Dana Corp and Andreas Wolf from Vitesco, express optimism about the opportunities that sustainability initiatives present.

3. Emerging Technologies in EV Battery Recycling: A feature article by environmental reporter Jim Motavalli delves into the burgeoning field of EV battery recycling. As the demand for electric vehicles grows, so does the need for effective recycling solutions for batteries, which contain valuable materials. The article discusses the global enterprise emerging around battery recycling, including the challenges and opportunities it presents. This focus on recycling aligns with the broader trend of sustainability in the automotive industry.

4. Innovative Solutions for Electronics Recycling: The issue also covers innovative technologies, such as the "zipper" technology developed by In2Tec, which aims to reclaim high-value components from discarded printed circuit boards (PCBs). This technology represents a significant advancement in the recycling of electronic waste, which is becoming increasingly important as vehicles incorporate more electronic components.

5. Industry Events and Discussions: The magazine announces the upcoming Battery & Electrification Summit, set to take place in November. This event will feature discussions on the latest developments in battery technology and electric power, with contributions from industry leaders and researchers. Topics will include EV charging infrastructure, battery requirements for military vehicles, and advancements in battery cell design.

6. Sustainability in Corporate Strategy: The issue highlights the growing role of Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) in Fortune 500 companies, with a notable increase in hiring for these positions. This trend reflects the institutionalization of sustainability across various sectors, including academia and industry. Initiatives from institutions like Stanford University and MIT are mentioned, showcasing the academic commitment to sustainability research and education.

7. Challenges and Controversies: While the push for sustainability is strong, the editorial also acknowledges potential controversies and challenges. The re-evaluation of nuclear power as a sustainable energy source and the ongoing reliance on fossil fuels during energy transitions are discussed as complex issues that may complicate the idealistic goals of sustainability.

8. Conclusion: The October 2022 issue of Automotive Engineering serves as a critical examination of the automotive industry's shift towards sustainability and electrification. It highlights the importance of recycling, innovative technologies, and the integration of sustainability into corporate strategies. As the industry navigates these changes, the insights and discussions presented in this issue will be vital for stakeholders aiming to understand and adapt to the evolving landscape of automotive engineering.

Overall, this edition not only informs readers about current trends and technologies but also encourages a deeper consideration of the environmental impacts of automotive manufacturing and the importance of sustainable practices in shaping the future of the industry.