BASF, Porsche, and BEST (Bio-based and Environmentally Sustainable Technologies) announced a joint pilot project to advance chemical recycling of end-of-life plastics into automotive materials. The companies said the collaboration demonstrates the potential for recycling technologies to support circular economy goals in both chemicals and transportation.

The pilot aims to process mixed plastic waste through chemical recycling, converting it into raw materials that can be reintegrated into high-performance automotive coatings and components. BASF will provide expertise in chemical processing, BEST will contribute recycling technology, and Porsche will test the resulting materials in automotive applications.

“Circularity requires collaboration across industries,” said Markus Kamieth, BASF chairman. “Working with Porsche and BEST allows us to accelerate innovation and show how recycled feedstocks can perform in demanding applications like automotive.”

The project reflects increasing pressure on both the automotive and chemical industries to reduce waste and carbon footprints. Porsche said the pilot underscores its sustainability strategy, while BASF noted that chemical recycling complements mechanical recycling by processing mixed or contaminated waste streams.

The companies added that successful outcomes could scale into broader automotive and coatings applications, with the potential to lower lifecycle emissions and expand options for sustainable materials.

Learn more about automotive coatings.