Volvo Cars – Manufacturing & the Environment
Volvo Cars are constantly striving to reduce the overall life-cycle impact each Volvo has on the environment, right through from manufacture to disposal:
85% Recyclable
At present, new Volvo cars are designed to be 85%* recyclable, and for 95% recoverability. In addition, the Volvo XC60 is RRR-certified (Reuse, Recycling, Recovery) to 95%. This model is Volvo's first to be type-approved with regard to recycling. In order to secure this approval, the car manufacturer must show how the car is recycled at the end of its life.
*In accordance with regulations including European Directive 2000/53/EC on ELVs (End-of-Life Vehicles).
Climate-neutral electricity at Volvo
Since 1 January, 2008, Volvo Cars manufacturing units in Europe use only green electricity, hydropower. Thus we support development of climate neutral electricity production. This is our latest step in making our manufacturing units in Europe climate neutral.
New recycling train and press line inaugurated
Volvo Cars Body Components in Olofström is investing in the future. The most modern stamping system in Europe - a new line with five presses and ten robots - produces body parts for the Volvo XC60. And the new Recycling Train, which transports scrap for reuse, means about 5,000 fewer truck transports and 55 percent lower carbon dioxide emissions in one year.
Allergy-friendly in-car environment
Offering an allergy-friendly in-car environment is a high priority for Volvo Cars. Our achievements include:
- All of our upholstery materials and interior textiles are tested for over 100 harmful or allergenic substances and emissions, and meet the requirements of Oeko-Tex Standard 100.
- All leather is chrome-free
- Nickel leakage from metal components is minimised.
- Volvo Cars' advanced Interior Air Quality System (IAQS) reduces the levels of certain harmful gases and particulates. With the launch of the new Volvo S80 in 2006, we also introduced our Clean Zone Interior Package (CZIP), a feature developed specifically for allergy-sufferers, and providing interior air recommended by the Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association.
The Swedish Asthma & Allergy Association now recommends four Volvo models - the S80, V70, XC70 and XC60 when equipped with Clean Zone Interior Package. The CZIP consists of IAQS and automated ventilation. The IAQS is available for all our models.
Environmental Projects
Volvo Cars are involved in a number of environmental projects in partnership with AB Volvo. An example is Volvo Adventure, an environmental competition for young people around the world conducted in collaboration with UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme).