“The various components such as the lens, cover, frame, casing and electronics will be joined together with screws instead of glue [prática padrão nos dias de hoje]”, explains the brand.
The headlight can be separated into individual components easily and without damage, to make the part more repairable. So, if you are hit by a stone, for example, there is no need to replace the entire headlight, but just the lens.
For customers, this can make repairs more efficient in the future. The longer lifespan of headlights can also help conserve resources and minimize carbon emissions.
Equally complex components are the interior door panels, which consist of different parts joined together using ultrasonic welding. In this case, Mercedes-Benz has developed new technology to better and more easily separate individual materials.
The adapted thermoplastic rivet is now easy to undo, allowing faster separation of individual components without damage. “Optimizing disassembly in this way simplifies repair and improves recyclability”, highlight the Germans.
Other initiatives
While Mercedes-Benz focuses on industrial design to facilitate repairs, other brands focus on similar options, but with some distinctions.
