Seoul, South Korea – A South Korean company, APM, has unveiled a groundbreaking solution for sustainable automotive manufacturing at the 2024 Korea Circular Economy Festival. Their innovative process involves refurbishing used car wheels and returning them to the market as good-as-new products.
The company collects used wheels from various sources, including repair shops and recycling centers. These wheels undergo a meticulous restoration process, which includes CNC machining, bending tests, and repainting. Before being released, the wheels are rigorously tested to meet government standards for quality-certified parts.
According to APM CEO Ju-Hwan Kim, "While tires are consumables, wheels, barring accidents, can last the entire lifespan of a vehicle. Our process targets wheels damaged from everyday wear and tear, such as curb rash or faded paint."
Kim also highlighted the growing demand for refurbished wheels from insurance companies, used car dealerships, and rental car agencies. "With more people taking up car care as a hobby, we're also seeing an increase in demand for customized wheels with different sizes or colors," he added.
Looking ahead, Kim expressed optimism about the future of the refurbished wheel market. "The government is set to finalize regulations for quality-certified parts early next year, which will significantly expand the market. And with the increasing global popularity of Korean vehicles, we believe there's a bright future for our refurbished wheels in overseas markets."
APM's solution offers a sustainable alternative to producing new wheels, reducing waste and conserving resources. As the automotive industry continues to prioritize environmental responsibility, initiatives like APM's are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable mobility.
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