June 25, 2025 15:18
Some of the interior parts of the Fiat Grande Panda are made from polyAl, a composite of polyethylene and aluminum recovered from post-consumer multilayer beverage cartons (Tetra Pak), once the cellulose content has been separated. Traditionally, this material has been reserved for low-value applications — until now.
Marking a first in the automotive industry, polyAl has been successfully integrated into visible interior components of a production vehicle. In each Grande Panda, the equivalent plastic and aluminum from 140 beverage cartons is used in elements such as the central console, dashboard, and interior front and rear door panels.
The recycled material is incorporated into Lapolen Ecotek, a tailor-made compound formulated by Italian firm Lapo Compound in collaboration with Fiat. The decision to use it in visible areas underlines the aesthetic potential of the material. Fiat chose the material for its shimmering effect, created by the aluminium content of the recycled material, and because Lapo Compound was able to precisely match the specific shade of blue required.
Beyond the automotive sector, Lapo Compound is also conducting trials for other uses of the polyAl-based compound Lapolen Ecotek, including outdoor furniture and factory floors.
“We believe in creating products that not only meet strict quality standards but also help contribute to a circular economy by keeping valuable materials in use,” said Giuseppe Crisci, general manager of Lapo Compound. “Our product innovation has successfully met this technical challenge for Fiat, which is testament to our dedication to sustainable innovation that supports a journey toward a more circular, responsible future.”
Beverage cartons are made of, on average, 70% paperboard, 25% polymers, and 5% aluminum. This combination of materials is the key to aseptic packaging, where ultra-thin layers of aluminum and polymers protect the food or beverage inside, extending the product’s shelf life without the need for preservatives or refrigeration.
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