Scania and partners have evaluated the use of remanufactured parts in new-build vehicles via the iReGear research programme. It saw a gearbox built using remanufactured parts on Scania’s main assembly line in Sweden via work with KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Scandinavian Transmission Service.
The manufacturer says that reusing parts can cut carbon emissions by up to 45% and reduce the number of new parts required by 50%.
Scania adds that the remanufactured gearbox was subject to the same testing regime as a new unit to ensure that it meets the quality and performance standards, an evaluation that was passed.
Reuse of components by Scania on its main assembly line via the iReGear project is a world-first for heavy vehicle OEMs. Head of Sustainability Fredrik Nilzen says that the work is “a compelling example of how the manufacturing of heavy vehicles can be more sustainable, circular and efficient, while retaining the highest quality standards.”
Scania adds that wider adoption of remanufactured components into new vehicles will requires builders to integrate those items directly into their production lines, rather than selling them separately as a spare part.
It notes that despite the potential of remanufacturing, in the European automotive sector it is mainly confined to the aftermarket, which accounts for only 1.1% of new manufacturing. Use of older parts to create new products “is considered a promising strategy for OEMs to achieve their climate goals and transition towards a circular economy,” the business adds.
It is now hoped that iReGear will lead the way for the heavy vehicle sector to make what Scania says is “this necessary shift in the efforts to create a more sustainable and cleaner transport industry.” Addressing resource scarcity issues is a further important element of the work.
Scandinavian Transmission Service CEO Ola Stålebo has welcomed the opportunity to challenge the perception that remanufactured parts only suit aftermarket use.
“Today, we can proudly reflect on a period of successful collaboration, where we have achieved breakthroughs in sustainable technology. This project truly shows that it might not need to stop at just one idea but could become a reality in the near future,” says Mr Stålebo.
