Sep 7, 2021 - Energy & Climate

Automakers peer into the future with recyclable cars

Ben Geman

BMW i Vision Circular concept. Photo courtesy of BMW

The electric future, near-term and far, is on display at the big IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich this week — even as internal combustion cars remain dominant.

Driving the news: That image above is BMW's i Vision Circular concept, a vision for 2040 to create vehicles made of 100% recycled materials and are 100% recyclable themselves.

2040 isn't soon (I'm smart!), but Car and Driver notes it "acts a demonstrator of BMW's goals for developing sustainable but luxurious vehicles."

Why it matters: BMW's long-term concept is among several ideas automakers are unveiling at the show.

For instance, TechCrunch explores models Mercedes plans to bring into production, while VW previewed the "near-production concept" for its ID 5 GTX crossover, CNET reports.
Axios' Joann Muller has a wide-angle look at the event, noting that auto shows are coming back and now feature "hands-on experiences showcasing innovative climate-friendly technologies and new modes of mobility."

Yes, but: The European environmental group Transport and Environment said Tuesday: "While EV sales continue to grow, they are being worryingly outpaced by SUVs, which are still primarily polluting, engine-driven cars."

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Automakers peer into the future with recyclable cars

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