Autoneum enhances sustainable offerings for commercial vehicles

Autoneum is taking significant strides toward sustainability in the commercial vehicle sector with the introduction of innovative polyester-based side and rear wall panels crafted from eco-friendly, fully recyclable Propylat PET. This new product represents a pivotal shift from traditional composite panels, enhancing not only sustainability but also the acoustic and thermal management of vehicles, thus supporting the industry’s transition to a circular economy.

The Swiss company has made a commitment to expanding its eco-conscious product lineup by utilizing Propylat PET, a cutting-edge material composed entirely of polyester. This technology offers a far more sustainable alternative to conventional composite and thermoset resin panels often found in trucks, which are notoriously difficult to recycle. The unique properties of Propylat PET contribute to superior acoustic and thermal insulation for the vehicle interior, while also minimizing the emission of volatile organic compounds and reducing odors.

Additionally, the design of these panels allows for components to be welded directly onto the material without adhesives or other chemicals, significantly increasing recyclability when the products reach the end of their life cycle. By investing in the creation of monomaterial components—where both the supporting structure and external surfaces are made entirely of polyester—Autoneum is further promoting the shift toward a sustainable circular economy.

The company’s new environmentally friendly panels have already received approval for mass production from several major European truck manufacturers, and they are currently available in markets across Europe and North America. With the establishment of a dedicated business unit focused on commercial vehicles set to launch in 2024, Autoneum aims to continue its journey of sustainable and profitable growth within this vital market segment. By providing manufacturers of medium and heavy-duty trucks, as well as agricultural vehicles, with innovative, eco-friendly solutions, Autoneum is playing a critical role in enhancing the environmental performance of commercial vehicles, marking a significant step forward in this sector’s sustainability efforts.