Continental is taking a new step forward by developing tire pressure sensors made from recyclable materials, integrating circular economy. The aim of their research project is to propose a solution for recovering and reusing end-of-life materials, and reintegrating them into the production process. The goal is to recycle around 70 tonnes of lithium batteries and 200 tonnes of recyclable materials every year, thereby reducing waste and conserving resources by 2030.
Circ-Uits: an innovative and ambitious European project
Continental is involved in the European Circ-Uits project (Circular Integration of independent Reverse supply Chains for the smart reUse of IndusTrially relevant Semiconductors), proposing to manufacture millions of sensors from recyclable materials by 2030. This major step forward for the ecological transition, which will ultimately avoid the production of several tons of waste while promoting the circular economy, is funded by the European Union to the tune of 6 million euros.
Continental, pioneer in tire pressure sensors
Continental is a major manufacturer of TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems): sensors built into wheels to check their pressure and temperature. Continental’s Toulouse plant – where the first TPMS was invented 25 years ago – manufactures over 7 million TPMS a year. Continental produces more than 40 million TPMS through its various plants around the world.
The average life of a TPMS is around 10 years, depending on the number of kilometers traveled. As a result, the number of sensors no longer in use accumulates year after year, creating a waste management challenge.
One solution: capitalize on the circular economy of sensors
As part of the Horizon Europe program, a European program for research and innovation, Continental is taking part in the Circ-Uits project, which aims to demonstrate improved circularity in the automotive and consumer electronics sectors, against the backdrop of the emerging crisis in semiconductor. The project develops digital solutions for the design, manufacture and management of electronic components and end-of-life products, as well as industrial testing.
In line with this international program, Continental is developing a research project aimed at proposing the future construction of electronic products from the reuse of end-of-life materials. While it is estimated that around 70 tonnes of lithium batteries and 200 tonnes of recyclable materials are used every year, Continental TPMS will eventually be manufactured from reusable and recyclable raw materials and components.
Valve, screw, sensor, printed circuit board and housing will thus be given a second life and integrated into circular economy circuits, either as part of the repair of identical products, or by being put back on the market as aftermarket components.
The objective : fully reusable and recyclable products by 2030
Continental will be the first equipment manufacturer in the world to achieve such an innovation, which will make it possible to avoid throwing away tens of millions of parts. Tests currently underway should lead to the marketing of a product as early as 2030.
This innovation is part of a collective venture involving companies from the automotive and household electrical appliance industries, laboratories and universities, aimed at promoting and developing potential future standards and tools linked to the circular economy. This also applies to the digital circular economy, enabling us to assess the different performances of solutions linked to their sustainability during product development.
Finally, eco-design and the reuse of electronic components represent an opportunity for Continental to limit its use of new components, and to integrate reuse loops entirely within the local European market, in a sector marked by increased international competition.
Adrien Eymard, Head of Sustainability, Environmental Protection, Safety & Health : “Innovation and design of vehicle components play a crucial role in the circular economy by driving sustainability and efficiency. By focusing on innovative materials and designs, automotive manufacturers can create components that are more durable, easier to repair, and recyclable. This not only extends the lifecycle of vehicles but also reduces the need for raw materials, minimizing environmental impact.
Additionally, designing for disassembly and reuse allows for components to be refurbished and reintegrated into the production cycle, further reducing waste. For electronic parts , core products at Continental Automotive , incorporating modular designs and standardized components can significantly enhance repairability and recyclability, ensuring that valuable materials are recovered and reused efficiently. These advancements contribute to a more sustainable automotive industry, where resources are used more efficiently, and environmental footprints are significantly reduced.
Moreover, collaboration across the industry is essential to foster and accelerate the transition toward a circular automotive industry. Projects such as CIRC-UIT are of great interest to Continental Automotive, and we are pleased to be part of them and look forward to more.”
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Continental helps shape tomorrow’s more sustainable and connected mobility by developing innovative products and services at the cutting edge of technology. A major player founded in 1871, Continental develops and markets high-performance, reliable and affordable solutions for passenger cars, industrial vehicles and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.
Source: www.continental.com/fr-fr/presse/communiques-de-presse/circ-uit/