Norwegian aluminium producer Norsk Hydro ASA and German automaker Porsche AG have entered into an agreement to collaborate on developing new materials and systems aimed at reducing the automaker’s carbon footprint.
The agreement has two main parts: first, Porshe has contracted with Hydro to begin including its low-carbon aluminium extrusions in its vehicles, and second, Porshe and Hydro will work together on developing a new value chain concept for the production of battery materials and for battery recycling.
Hydro says that supplying Porshe with its low-carbon aluminium is expected to reduce each unit’s carbon footprint to about 3.5 kg of CO2 per kg of aluminium. A drop of this magnitude will put Porsche about 60 percent under the average primary aluminium currently used on the European continent.
Barbara Frenkel, Executive Board Member for Procurement at Porsche AG, said in a press release that achieving net-zero carbon emissions is a priority for her firm.
“Porsche is working towards a net carbon-neutral value chain of our vehicles in 2030. Aluminium and materials for battery production play a key role in our sustainability strategy. With Hydro’s aluminium we aim to substantially reduce CO2 emissions deriving from this important material.”
Hilde Merete Aasheim, President and CEO of Hydro, noted the key role aluminium plays in the drive to reduce carbon emissions.
“To reduce global warming, we need to decarbonize energy systems, produce for circularity and recycle resources already in use. Aluminium is a key enabler in the green transition, but supply chains must become emission free. The industry needs to partner up to make this happen and we are pleased to be able to work with a pioneer like Porsche in our common task to create a nearly carbon-free car.”
Norsk Hydro, which was founded in 1905, financed by the Swedish Wallenberg family and French banks, began its life named Norsk hydro-elektrisk Kvælstofaktieselskab (literally, “Norwegian hydro-electric nitrogen limited”) by Sam Eyde. The Norwegian government owns approximately 40% of the company at the present time. Norsk Hydro is one of the largest aluminium companies in the world, with plants in Rjukan, Raufoss, Vennesla, Karmøy, Høyanger, Årdal, Sunndalsøra, and Holmestrand. Norsk also has several plants abroad.
