New programme supports Mercedes-Benz’s sustainability goals

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the Tomorrow XX technology programme in support of its sustainability objectives, making this the first time an XX technology programme extends across its entire product portfolio.

This programme focusses on decarbonisation, resource use, and circularity from the start of the design phase to the end of a vehicle's lifestyle. It also aims to maximise the benefits of Mercedes-Benz's Design for Environment and Design for Circularity principles, regardless of model line or drivetrain.

Tomorrow XX represents the holistic Mercedes-Benz "Design for Environment" approach, which is aimed at reducing both carbon footprint and consumption of primary resources

The aim is to put all components and materials under the microscope - from the battery to the bodyshell and from interior equipment to trim elements. Even materials hidden from view such as insulation are closely examined. Every kilogram of CO₂ is scrutinised and questioned: Which components need to be redesigned to be easily dismantled, repair, and recycle? Which materials need to be changed, recombined, or replaced to reduce CO₂ emissions, use fewer resources, and be recyclable? Which primary materials can already be replaced today by recycled materials?

In Kuppenheim, Mercedes-Benz is accelerating the construction of its own in-house pilot recycling plant for batteries to completely close the material loop. The facility is currently in the research and development phase, with the target of establishing a forward-looking and sustainable solution for battery recycling.

With Tomorrow XX, Mercedes-Benz has already identified more than 40 new, more sustainable components and materials in approximately two years. Together, these have the potential to further significantly reduce the carbon footprint of a future series-production vehicle relative to the current portfolio and to substantially increase recycled content.