Electric vehicles help reduce carbon emissions, so it’s only logical for the factories that produce them to do the same. Audi has announced that its factory in Brussels, responsible for manufacturing the forthcoming e-tron electric SUV, has been certified as a “CO2-neutral site” by Belgian testing organization Vinçotte.
According to Audi, this carbon-neutral status was primarily achieved through the utilization of renewable energy, which led to a 95 percent reduction in the plant’s emissions. The remaining 5 percent of emissions are offset by various environmental initiatives.
The automaker initiated the installation of solar panels across different factory buildings in 2012 and now boasts one of the largest solar photovoltaic installations in the area. The plant also uses biogas for heating. In addition, Audi is focused on minimizing water use, reducing air pollution, and enhancing recycling efforts within the facility.
Production for the e-tron is set to commence later this year. This SUV is rooted in a concept introduced at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, which was claimed to have a range of 310 miles. Expectations are that the production model will match this range to compete with Tesla. Following the e-tron, Audi plans to introduce all-electric versions of the Sportback and Gran Turismo models as part of a significant electric vehicle initiative by its parent company, Volkswagen Group.
Audi is not alone in claiming a climate-neutral factory. Volvo announced in January that one of its engine plants in Sweden had achieved similar status, and several automakers are undertaking efforts to reduce or offset carbon emissions from their factories. This comprehensive approach to making automobiles greener is becoming increasingly vital as electrification and other efficiency-enhancing technologies gain traction. As tailpipe emissions decline, the emissions associated with the manufacturing process will account for a larger share of a vehicle’s overall carbon footprint.
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