Research Publications

This report seeks to provide a "snap-shot" detailing current management of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) in the United States. The report is divided as follows:

Chapter 1 - Introduction: Focused on estimating end-of-life vehicle (ELV) generation rates, identifying typical ELVs encountered and defining an "average" ("generic equivalent") ELV in terms of material composition.

Chapter 2 - ELV Management Process Description: Providing a step-by-step description of ELV processing from initial dismantling to shredding of remaining "hulks" to subsequent recovery of metals, and finally, disposal of waste residues generated ("automotive shredder waste" - ASR).

Chapter 3 - Environmental and Energy Burdens of ELVs: Detailing key environmental burdens in terms of ASR and scrap tires, along with elaboration of energy burdens associated with each stage of ELV processing.

Chapter 4 - Economic Assessment: Estimating the value of "as is" ELVs, the business economics faced by key ELV processors and ASR landfill disposal costs.

Chapter 5 - Legislation/Policy Analysis: Detailing pertinent ELV-related legislation and policy in Western Europe (where government plays a much more active role than in the US) as well as the US.

Chapter 6 - Key Players in ELV Management: Identifying the general nature and composition of ELV processors (dismantlers, shredders and non-ferrous material processors), pertinent information regarding individual auto manufacturers, an outline of key technical and trade organizations and finally, discussion of the US Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) - the Big 3 automaker's collaborative research group which focuses on both technical and environmental issues.

Chapter 7 - Key Areas/Issues in ELV Management: Identifying six key areas/issues at the current forefront of ELV management concerns/activities.

Chapter 8 - Conclusions