Mercedes-Benz Expands Recycled Low Carbon Aluminum Partnership With Hydro

Mercedes-Benz Expands Recycled Low Carbon Aluminum Partnership With Hydro

Mercedes-Benz has expanded its collaboration with Norsk Hydro ASA to increase the adoption of recycled low carbon aluminum across vehicle production in Europe. The partnership will enable Mercedes-Benz to become the first automotive company in Europe to integrate Hydro CIRCAL recycled aluminum into series production for the next generation of large electric vehicles. The material contains at least 75% post-consumer scrap, supporting reduced resource consumption and improved sustainability across the automotive aluminum value chain.

The expanded agreement focuses on increasing the use of Hydro CIRCAL recycled aluminum and additional volumes of Hydro REDUXA low-carbon aluminum for Mercedes-Benz vehicle manufacturing. Both companies are also committed to continuously reducing the carbon footprint associated with aluminum production over time. This approach supports the automotive industry's transition toward lower-emission materials while maintaining the performance requirements needed for advanced vehicle structures and premium passenger vehicles.

The collaboration builds on a 2022 letter of intent that established a low-carbon technology roadmap covering 2023 to 2030. In 2024, the partnership was extended across the complete aluminum value chain, including raw materials, processing, and finished products. The latest expansion strengthens cooperation between aluminum suppliers and automotive manufacturers to develop more sustainable material solutions for future mobility applications.

Recycled low carbon aluminum is becoming an important material strategy for reducing manufacturing emissions because aluminum production traditionally requires significant energy input. By increasing recycled content and using lower-carbon production methods, automotive companies can reduce the environmental impact of vehicle manufacturing while supporting circular economy principles. The Hydro and Mercedes-Benz partnership demonstrates how material innovation can contribute to cleaner production processes without compromising vehicle quality, durability, or design flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mercedes-Benz and Hydro aluminum partnership?
The Mercedes-Benz and Hydro partnership focuses on increasing recycled and low-carbon aluminum usage in future vehicle production through sustainable material sourcing and improved manufacturing processes. The collaboration includes Hydro CIRCAL recycled aluminum with at least 75% post-consumer scrap and Hydro REDUXA low-carbon aluminum. It aims to reduce material emissions, strengthen circular economy practices, and support cleaner automotive production across the complete aluminum value chain.