German consortium secures public funding to develop recyclable automotive components amid tightening EU regulations.
Covestro, BMW, and Forvia have joined a three-year research project to create recyclable automotive lighting, mechatronic, and electronic components. The Kollert initiative, funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space, received €4.371 million under the CircularGlowUp framework.
The project aims to address material scarcity, supply chain risks, and EU End-of-Life Vehicles Regulation requirements. Current industry challenges include high costs and limited recyclability of plastics, which Kollert seeks to overcome through circular design principles.
Partners include Fraunhofer institutes, universities, and automotive suppliers, with the project running from June 2026 to May 2029. The effort reflects growing regulatory and resource pressures on automakers to adopt sustainable practices.