ZEvRA aims to enhance the circularity of light-duty electric vehicles (EVs) across their entire value chain, supporting the European Union’s goal of achieving zero CO2e emissions by 2035. The project will develop a Design for Circularity (DfC) methodology and a comprehensive circularity assessment framework based on the 9Rs to improve EV production. It will validate this approach by creating zero-emission solutions for key automotive materials representing over 84% of the vehicle material mix, including steel, different types of aluminium, plastics, composites, glass, tyres, and rare earth elements. These solutions will be supported by digital tools for manufacturing, circularity assessment, traceability, and virtual vehicle integration. ZEvRA will also implement training and awareness programs to promote adoption, along with circular business models focused on end-of-life and logistics to improve economic feasibility. Through its consortium of OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, industry, and academia, the project aims to influence at least 59% of European EVs by 2035.
Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology (2024) studied this question.