Implementing DfE in a Tier 1 Auto Supplier: Investigating Door Panel Design

As a result of the impending European End-of-Life Vehicle Directive and other business drivers such as supply-chain information requests, many tier one automotive suppliers have begun implementing Design for Environment (DfE). However, there is no standard way of implementing DfE and few guidelines for designing successful DfE programs. Companies can begin by selecting a case study design to gain experience, understand the challenges and determine the best method for implementing DfE. As part of a partnership of public and private sector organizations, Magna International and Five Winds International, carried out a DfE case study. The case study was implemented using a comparison of an existing door panel and a DfE concept panel at Magna International. The process involved utilizing several DfE tools, including checklists and LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), to determine the key environmental aspects of the two designs. The findings from this exercise were used to produce a Case Study report on the integration of eco-efficiency and DfE into the product development process in the automotive industry. The case study is one part of a larger training module on DfE for the automotive sector. This paper will examine the Case Study process, development and results, with focus on key DfE findings for the auto industry.