The use of bio-mass balanced polycarbonate and sustainable plastics in ‘EcoPeak’ instead of aluminium reduces the weight of the roof system by up to 40% compared to conventional solutions, and ensures improved energy and fuel efficiency, and enhanced driving dynamics.
28 Sep 2024 | 4104 Views | By Autocar Professional Bureau
Webasto, the global market leader for roof systems, is pursuing broad-based, ambitious climate protection targets. Webasto sees potential for reducing the CO2e footprint not only in production and operation, but also in its products and is the first automotive supplier to present a roof concept that combines sustainability, ...
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Webasto, the global market leader for roof systems, is pursuing broad-based, ambitious climate protection targets. Webasto sees potential for reducing the CO2e footprint not only in production and operation, but also in its products and is the first automotive supplier to present a roof concept that combines sustainability, innovation, and modern design with the ‘EcoPeak’.
The company primarily relies on bio-mass balanced and recycled materials and also uses solar cells to supply the vehicle with climate-friendly electricity.
The use of bio-mass balanced polycarbonate and sustainable plastics instead of aluminum reduces the weight of the roof system by up to 40 percent compared to conventional solutions. This not only ensures improved energy and fuel efficiency, but also increases driving dynamics. The product features, for example in terms of durability, remain at the usual high-quality level.
Intelligent use of light and shadow
The EcoPeak panel covers both the roof area and the rear window. This enlarged surface is equipped with solar cells that supply the vehicle with up to 350 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year. Depending on the vehicle and local climate conditions, this can equate to a mileage of around 2,500 kilometres. Another key feature of the EcoPeak is its integrated roller blinds. The fabric is made from recycled PET bottles.
Fifty percent less CO2e emissions
According to Webasto, the concept study shows that as a result of visionary design and the use of environmentally friendly basic components, approximately 50% fewer emissions are emitted compared to conventional roof systems.
"Thanks to the enlarged surface area, our roof concept has a significant impact on the vehicle's overall CO2e footprint. As a market and innovation leader, we are using this concept study to show our customers the possibilities for future series applications. Together with them, we want to develop solutions that are an alternative to conventional roof systems and perfectly combine sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic design," says Jan Henning Mehlfeldt, Member of the Management Board and responsible for the global roof business at Webasto. "Considering recyclability enables the efficient reuse of materials, which reduces waste and prolongs the utility of resources.”
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