Recycled aluminium sought from vehicles has more value than many realise. Let's understand the whys and hows

An internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle generally has engine blocks, transmission housings, wheels, suspension systems, body panels, interior trim, headlights, and taillights made to some extent of aluminium. Meanwhile, in electric vehicles (EVs), the battery pack, the majority of the chassis, battery enclosures, and charging stations have aluminium as the primary building material.

Image Source: Hydro

Despite being lighter, the metal holds high durability and can resist extreme forces thus making aluminium a superior preference for structural pieces of EVs. Adverse environmental conditions such as contact with salt water and road salt are likely to cause corrosion in such automobiles, making it necessary to apply resistant materials. Aluminium is known for its corrosion-defying features, making it an ideal solution to help prolong the lifespan of electric vehicles.

And when the time comes, aluminium pays off with higher recycling value than many realise.

How is the metal from disposed of vehicles recycled?