Automotive

From Shirts to Insulators: Recycled Honda Uniforms Find New Utility in Vehicles

Published

2 months ago

August 13, 2023

Daily News Staff

August 10, 2023

— MARYSVILLE, Ohio

Recycled Honda uniforms are shredded into fibers and repurposed for insulation in new Honda and Acura automobiles
Uniform recycling program reduces waste to landfill from Honda manufacturing and R&D facilities in Alabama, Indiana, North Carolina and Ohio
Honda’s “Triple Action to Zero” approach focuses on “resource circulation” to make new products from 100% sustainable materials by 2050

Honda associates put a lot into the products they make, now including the shirts right off their backs. Honda is advancing a recycling initiative that takes uniforms worn by associates at its U.S. manufacturing and R&D facilities and transforms them into sound-absorbing insulation for use in Honda and Acura automobiles. This program diverts approximately 45,000 pounds of uniforms from reaching landfills each month as Honda works toward its commitment to use 100% sustainable materials in its products in the future. Watch a video of the uniform recycling process at https://honda.us/UniformRecycling.

Recycled Honda Uniforms Find New Utility in Vehicles

Honda has established a global “Triple Action to Zero” approach, with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities, use of 100% clean energy and resource circulation (100% sustainable materials), by 2050. Achieving that goal – which targets zero environmental impact – will require innovative solutions, including how Honda sources materials for new products by recycling and reusing material from end-of-life vehicles and Honda operations.

“To achieve our Triple Zero goal of 100% sustainable material use, we need to take every possible opportunity to recycle materials at end of life for reuse in our products, thereby minimizing our utilization of virgin materials,” said Negar Gilsinger, manager of Resource Circulation for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “By maximizing end-of-life material recycling, we are giving our uniforms a second life in Honda and Acura vehicles.”

The Honda uniform recycling program leverages cross-industry collaboration between Honda and its uniform suppliers Aramark and Cintas Corporation, as well as insulation supplier UGN Automotive and textile recycler Leigh Fibers. Uniforms from Honda production and R&D facilities in Alabama, Indiana, North Carolina and Ohio are recycled and reused in five different insulator parts on all nine Honda and four Acura models made in North America. In the future, Honda plans to expand the uniform recycling program to other facilities in North America.

“Collaborating with Honda suppliers in the uniform recycling program has brought great value to our supply chain sustainability efforts,” said Rob Long, senior procurement specialist with Honda North American Indirect Procurement. “As Honda works to advance sustainability, we appreciate our suppliers’ efforts to innovate their business operations to reduce waste and give new life to our Honda uniforms.”

More than 380,000 pounds of uniforms have been recycled since the program launched at the end of 2021. The uniforms Honda associates wear have always been an important part of the company’s culture and success, symbolizing Honda’s “One Team” approach, which promotes collaboration and the understanding that the ideas of all associates are valued.

Transforming Uniforms into Insulation
Honda associate uniforms that are cleaned by uniform suppliers – Aramark, at Honda Indiana and Ohio facilities, and Cintas Corporation, at Alabama and North Carolina facilities – are evaluated after washing. If the uniforms are undamaged, they are sent back to associates to wear. When uniforms are designated for reuse in Honda and Acura vehicles, they are baled and sent to Leigh Fibers, which specializes in reprocessing and custom-blending fiber-based materials.

At Leigh Fibers’ facility, the uniforms are shredded into material that meets the required fiber grade for use as vehicle insulators. Zippers and buttons from the uniforms are first extracted and collected so that no metal or plastic goes through the shredding process. Then the material gets blended into mixed fibers and tested to ensure the fiber material meets the fiber length requirements. The newly reprocessed fibers are then packaged and delivered to insulation supplier UGN.

UGN blends, consolidates and trims the fibers into material that is molded into insulation and returned to Honda auto manufacturing plants for new vehicle production. Typically, UGN creates insulation from post-industrial fibers, which are sourced from textile companies, and polyester sourced from recycled water bottles. The uniform recycling program marks the first time Honda and UGN are using post-consumer textile waste for sustainable insulation material.

“It is part of UGN’s history and culture to maximize recycled content in our parts, reduce landfill by recycling our own by-products, and promote circular, mono-material technologies that enable end-of-life vehicle recycling,” said Pranav Singh, director of Purchasing & Packaging for UGN Automotive. “Reusing Honda uniforms contributes to these efforts by increasing the amount of recycled materials available for insulators and opens the door to other post-consumer textile waste projects.”

Expanding Recycled Materials in Vehicles
The uniform recycling program builds on Honda’s longstanding commitment to reduce waste and incorporate higher recycled content in Honda and Acura vehicles. This includes working with suppliers to transform post-industrial textile scrap, such as fibers from denim, into vehicle insulation/absorption material. In collaboration with UGN, Honda annually reuses approximately 2,800 tons of recycled post-industrial textile waste – equivalent to 5.6 million pairs of jeans – and 3,000 tons of post-consumer PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles – equivalent to 6 million water bottles – for vehicle sound-absorbing insulation.

Other approaches to using sustainable materials in Honda and Acura vehicles have included soybean-based foam for vehicle headrests, recycled plastic water bottles and recycled Honda car bumpers for wheel liners, plant-based material for the seat fabric in the 2019 Acura RDX and Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid vehicle, and processed volcanic rocks for the roof liner in the 2003 Honda Element.

To learn more about Honda’s Triple Action to Zero approach and the concept of resource circulation, read Our Perspective, “We Have Set a Great Big Goal: Nothing.”

About Honda’s Commitment to the Environment
Honda is working toward its global goal of zero environmental impact by 2050 through its “Triple Action to Zero” approach, including achieving carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities, 100% utilization of renewable energy, and resource circulation, utilizing 100% sustainable materials by reprocessing products back to raw materials and reusing those materials in the creation of new products. Toward this goal, Honda will strive to make battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles represent 100% of auto sales in the U.S. and globally by 2040.

To reduce the environmental impact of its business operations, Honda also is offsetting CO2 emissions from its North American manufacturing operations through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) for renewable wind and solar power that seek to cover more than 60% of the electricity Honda uses in North America. Honda also promotes environmentally responsible business practices with its suppliers and retail dealer partners across North America.

Source: Honda

Automotive

Nissan Reveals Retro-Inspired Hardbody Edition to Their 2024 Frontier Truck Lineup

Nissan unveils 2024 Frontier with retro-inspired Hardbody Edition, combining nostalgia and modernity in a rugged truck lineup.

Published

5 days ago

September 28, 2023

Rod Washington

Nissan has always been known for its rugged and reliable trucks, and the 2024 Nissan Frontier continues that tradition. This fall, Nissan is set to release their highly anticipated new Frontier, showcasing a blend of modern technology and retro-inspired design. One particular edition that stands out is the Hardbody Edition, paying homage to the iconic Nissan Hardbody pickup trucks of the 1980s. This limited-edition package is sure to capture the hearts of truck enthusiasts across generations. Let’s dive into the exciting features and details of the 2024 Nissan Frontier lineup.

The Frontier Hardbody Edition:
The 2024 Frontier Hardbody Edition embodies the spirit of Nissan’s 1980s truck heritage. Available exclusively on the Frontier SV Crew Cab 4×4, this edition features a range of design elements that harken back to the original Hardbody pickup. The retro-inspired decals, heritage-styled 17-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, sport bar, and black exterior trim create a distinctive and eye-catching appearance. Priced at $3,890, the Hardbody Edition adds a touch of nostalgia to the Frontier’s lineup.

Enhanced Features and Grades:
In addition to the Hardbody Edition, the 2024 Frontier offers an array of features and grades to cater to various customer preferences. The new SL grade on Crew Cab models combines luxurious elements such as LED lighting, leather-appointed seating, and a Fender® 10-speaker audio system. This highly equipped midsize truck reflects Nissan’s commitment to meeting the demands and desires of its customers.

Upgraded NissanConnect® Services:
Nissan has also enhanced the connectivity and convenience features of the 2024 Frontier. The available NissanConnect® Services now come with a three-year trial, providing an extended period for customers to experience the benefits. This telematics feature integrates with the MyNISSAN smartphone app and offers functions like remote door lock/unlock, remote engine start/stop, vehicle health reports, emergency calling, and Nissan Skill for Amazon Alexa®. These advanced features further enhance the Frontier’s appeal in the modern era.

Versatility and Customization:
The 2024 Nissan Frontier offers a wide range of options to suit individual needs. With various bed lengths, drivetrain configurations, and grades, shoppers can customize their Frontier according to their requirements. Whether it’s the PRO-X and PRO-4X models designed for off-road adventures or the King Cab and Crew Cab variants with different bed lengths, the Frontier provides versatility and flexibility for every kind of truck enthusiast.

Pricing and Availability:
Nissan has announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2024 Frontier, starting at $29,770 for the base Frontier S King Cab 4×2. The pricing varies depending on the model, trim, and drivetrain configuration. Interested buyers can visit the Nissan website or local dealerships for detailed pricing information.

With the introduction of the 2024 Nissan Frontier and the special Hardbody Edition, Nissan pays tribute to its rich truck heritage while incorporating modern features and design elements. The Frontier’s combination of ruggedness, technology, and customization options make it an appealing choice for truck enthusiasts. Whether you’re nostalgic for the 1980s Hardbody trucks or seeking a well-equipped midsize truck for your adventures, the 2024 Nissan Frontier is worth considering. Stay tuned for the release of this exciting lineup and experience the perfect blend of retro charm and contemporary innovation.

Source: Nissan

A Nostalgic Footnote:

When I was a young man fresh out of my teenage years and eager to explore the world, I remember seeing the new Nissan Hardbody truck being introduced. It was during a late winter day in 1986 in Southern California when my Dad, who owned a Datsun truck himself, took his vehicle for servicing at Gardena Nissan. It was there that I stumbled upon a stack of brochures and picked one up to read while we waited for Dad’s truck to be serviced. I remember telling my Dad that I would soon own one of these trucks, and by May of the following year, 1987, I indeed purchased a sleek, black E model.

Have you had a chance to read the article in Road & Track?: https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a45140451/2024-nissan-frontier-hardbody-edition/

Automotive

Hyundai 2024 Santa Cruz: Best Urban Pickup by Cars.com

“Hyundai’s 2024 Santa Cruz named Best Urban Pickup by Cars.com, blending adventure with practicality.”

Published

6 days ago

September 27, 2023

Hal Machina

Hyundai’s 2024 Santa Cruz has been named the Best Urban Pickup by Cars.com in their Pickup Truck Buying Guide. The Santa Cruz impressed Cars.com’s editors with its ability to combine adventure and practicality, as well as its range of desirable features. Ricky Lao, the director of product planning at Hyundai Motor America, expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the brand’s commitment to innovative design, powerful drivetrains, driver convenience, and advanced safety features.

*The 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz Night Edition photographed in Irvine, Calif., Aug. 18, 2022.*

According to Aaron Bragman, Cars.com’s Detroit Bureau Chief, the Hyundai Santa Cruz is the ideal truck for urban environments. Its sleek and compact design, lockable hard-top tonneau cover, and comfortable ride make it a dream for city dwellers. Additionally, its Surround View Monitor makes parallel parking on narrow city streets a breeze.

To receive a Cars.com Top Pick designation, vehicles must demonstrate solid fuel economy, capability, and value. For pickup trucks, payload and towing capacities are also considered. Moreover, practical attributes that cater to family needs are taken into account, as many pickups are used for this purpose.

Cars.com Inc. is a leading automotive marketplace platform that connects car shoppers with sellers through digital solutions. Hyundai Motor America focuses on “Progress for Humanity” and offers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles to U.S. consumers. In 2022, Hyundai’s dealers sold over 724,000 vehicles in the U.S., with a significant portion produced at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama. For more information, visit www.HyundaiNews.com.

Source: Hyundai

Automotive

2024 Nissan Sentra: Refreshed Styling & Premium Features at $20,630

“Discover the 2024 Nissan Sentra with refreshed styling, improved fuel economy, and premium features starting at $20,630.”

Published

1 week ago

September 24, 2023

Rod Washington

Introducing the 2024 Nissan Sentra: Fresh Style and Enhanced Features at an Affordable Price

Nissan has unveiled the refreshed 2024 Sentra, and it’s better than ever. With updated styling, improved fuel economy, and additional premium features, the new Sentra is ready to impress. Starting at just $20,630, this compact sedan offers great value for money.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the 2024 Sentra is its striking design. The front fascia has been reshaped, featuring a new interpretation of Nissan’s iconic V-motion grille. The headlights have been updated, and there’s a new 16-inch alloy wheel design. For those seeking a sportier look, the SR grade boasts red SR badges, a new 18-inch alloy wheel design, and dark chrome trim for the V-motion grille.

Under the hood, the Sentra is equipped with a smooth and responsive 2.0-liter inline-four engine. Combined with a new Xtronic CVT and the integration of Idle Stop Start technology, the Sentra delivers improved fuel efficiency. The S and SV grades achieve an impressive EPA-rated 30 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined, while the SR grade gets 30 mpg city, 38 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined.

Safety is a top priority for Nissan, and the 2024 Sentra comes equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard across all grades. This comprehensive suite of active safety technologies includes features such as Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist, and Rear Automatic Braking.

In terms of premium features, the SV Premium Package now includes an eight-speaker Bose Premium Audio system, Intelligent Around View Monitor, and exterior mirror turn signal indicators. These additions make the package even more appealing to Sentra buyers.

With a starting price of $20,630, the 2024 Nissan Sentra offers a range of options and upgrades to meet individual preferences. Whether you opt for the S, SV, or SR grade, you’ll find a sedan that combines style, efficiency, and advanced safety features.

To learn more about the 2024 Nissan Sentra and explore its full specifications, photos, and videos, visit the official Nissan website. Stay connected with Nissan through their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube for the latest updates on their products, services, and commitment to sustainable mobility.

Read the original press release: Sporty refresh and new technology for 2024 Nissan Sentra

Source: NISSAN Motors