New Technology Could Result in Porsche Steering Being Completely Useless in the Future | Carscoops

      Porsche is developing methods to transform difficult-to-recycle parts into eco-foam for steering wheel rims.

      By Chris Chilton

      Porsche has created new recycling methods for vehicles that have reached the end of their life cycle.

      The company has collaborated with chemical giant BASF and a sustainable technology firm.

      The pilot project has converted shredded plastics into foam intended for steering wheels.

      A few years back, Porsche stated that 70 percent of the 911 models produced since the 1960s were still operational. Now, they are embarking on a new recycling initiative to ensure that even cars at the end of their lifespan can continue to deliver excitement on winding roads.

      Recycling is not a novel concept in the automotive sector. End-of-life vehicles contain numerous valuable metals that can be reused. However, the challenge lies in dealing with the other materials. Automobiles also consist of various plastics, foams, and paints—components that are more difficult to repurpose.

      What Happens After The Shred?

      At present, when car parts are processed through an industrial shredder, the result is known as automotive shredder residue (ASR). This material is essentially waste and is “thermally recycled,” a euphemism for being incinerated. While this process generates energy, it is not environmentally friendly.

      Porsche aims to boost the recycled content in its vehicles, prompting a partnership with BASF and BEST Bioenergy and Sustainable Technologies to explore new approaches for managing ASR and incorporating it into new vehicle designs. This new chemical recycling method employs gasification technology, along with bio-based raw materials like wood chips, to convert the plastic waste into synthesis gas at elevated temperatures. BASF then utilizes this gas to produce new plastics.

      In the pilot project, Porsche utilized BASF’s polyurethane to produce foam for a set of three-spoke sports steering wheels. Although the foam is not entirely made from recycled materials—some traditional fossil fuel plastics are still present—it marks a positive advancement.

      Porsche has not announced when these techniques will be implemented. However, if I ever manage to save enough for a new 911 Carrera, I will be hoping that it contains some recycled GT3 RS material.