LyondellBasell, Dacia Dazzle with Sparkly Recycled Material for Iconic Duster

LyondellBasell (LYB) and Romanian automaker Dacia, part of the Renault Group, have unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration for the exterior design of the latest Dacia Duster SUV model. Renowned for its rugged elegance, the Dacia Duster now features the sturdy Starkle polypropylene (PP) material, made possible by the CirculenRecover portfolio from LYB. These innovative CirculenRecover PP compounds incorporate recycled materials and bring a unique aesthetic to the all-new Duster model.

“The development of CirculenRecover polymers exemplifies our unwavering commitment to creating solutions for everyday sustainable living," said Alexandre Martin, LYB business development manager for transportation. "This innovative material not only elevates the aesthetics of vehicles but also aligns with our customers' sustainability goals.”

20% mechanically recycled content

The CirculenRecover PP compound includes 20% recycled PP based on mechanical recycling and is derived from post-industrial waste diverted from the manufacturing process of goods such as flexible packaging. Compared to using virgin materials, this reduces CO₂ emissions, underscoring Dacia’s dedication to sustainability. CirculenRecover is incorporated into the Dacia Starkle material, which is used in exterior parts such as bumpers, trims, and body side moldings across the new Duster model. The offroad-capable Dacia Duster can be seen in action on the Dacia website.

Related:New Beginnings for End-of-life Auto Plastics at LyondellBasell Recycling Center

Sparkling performance to the fore

Beyond achieving performance for automotive exteriors, CirculenRecover polymers offer a mold-in-color special effect with particles to highlight the use of recycled content. This single-material solution eliminates extra steps, enhances design efficiency, and can help improve the potential recyclability of the parts. This refreshing Starkle design instills the new Dacia Duster model with distinctive character, catering to end consumers’ increasing awareness of recyclability.

Starkle design highlights use of recycled content with a mold-in-color special effect. Image courtesy of Dacia.

“Our collaboration with LYB has resulted in a leading-edge solution for the automotive industry,” said Dacia's Damien Laplane. "It serves as a powerful demonstration that recycled materials can be both aesthetically pleasing and high-performing.”

The new Dacia Duster demonstrates that sustainability and modern aesthetics can seamlessly co-exist. With this collaboration, LYB and Dacia are setting a new standard for automotive design and inspiring the automotive industry to embrace a more sustainable future.

Check out LYB’s CirculenRecover portfolio at Fakuma at stand B1-1112.