Nissan announced its plans to start using low-carbon dioxide emission aluminum parts, sourced from recycled or “green” aluminum, in current and new models. The initiative takes effect this year, and the company stated in a press release that it hopes to complete a full transition by 2030.
Nissan to Replace Traditional Aluminum
The Japanese automaker expects the switch from traditional aluminum, which makes up about 10% of a vehicle’s weight, to support the company’s goal of reaching carbon neutrality for its vehicles’ entire life cycles by 2050.
Starting Small with Vehicle Panels in Japan
Nissan has already purchased low-carbon emission aluminum sheets from UACJ Corporation and Kobe Steel Ltd. for use in its vehicle panels manufactured in Japan. The company plans to eventually incorporate green aluminum in all aluminum parts globally, including processed components.
Nissan’s Green Aluminum Future
Beginning in April 2027, Nissan expects to use low-carbon dioxide emission aluminum across all new models. For current models produced this fiscal year, Nissan intends to buy chassis parts, wheels, harness wires, and axle parts derived from green aluminum in Europe, Japan, and the U.S. By April 2025, the company expects to replace about 20% of the newly mined aluminum the company uses for car parts in those markets with recycled or green aluminum.
Image Source: Shutterstock / Hanna Yohanna
