Sulaco End-of-Product-Life Protocol

1.Purpose

Sulaco is committed to sustainability across the full lifecycle of its products. Although our carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) wheels are engineered to last the lifetime of the vehicle, they are not currently recyclable through conventional waste streams. This protocol ensures that we maximize recovery, reuse, and recycling of components at the end of their service life.

2.Scope

This protocol applies to all Sulaco products, with a focus on:

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) wheels and structures.

Integrated electronics, sensors, or embedded systems.

Packaging and related components.

3.Guiding Principles

Circular Economy Approach – We design for longevity and recovery.

Take-Back Responsibility – Sulaco accepts returned products at end of use.

Material Recovery – We prioritize recycling or reuse of metals, electronics, and other recoverable parts.

Innovation in Sustainability – We actively explore new CFRP recycling technologies and partnerships.

Transparency – We provide clear disposal and return instructions to customers.

4.Take-Back Program

Sulaco will offer a product return service where customers can send back end-of-life wheels and related products.

Returned products will be processed at approved Sulaco or partner facilities.

Logistics: Customers may return wheels via designated collection points or through a shipping program coordinated with Sulaco.

5.Recycling and Recovery Process

Electronics & Sensors: Extracted and sent to certified e-waste recyclers for material recovery (precious metals, PCBs, wiring).

Carbon Fiber Composites:

Where possible, we will explore mechanical recycling (fiber reclaim through shredding and reprocessing). In the medium term, we will work with partners to evaluate pyrolysis or chemical recycling for recovering carbon fibers.

Metals & Fasteners: Standard recycling via established scrap-metal channels.

Packaging: 100% recyclable or biodegradable packaging materials are used and should be returned or recycled by customers.

6.Customer Guidance

Sulaco provides clear instructions with each product on how to return it at end of life.

Customers are encouraged not to dispose of Sulaco products through municipal waste streams.

Returned products are handled at no additional cost to the customer.

7.Sustainability Innovation Roadmap

Short Term (Current): Take-back program, electronic component recovery, basic composite shredding/reuse.

Medium Term (2–5 years): Strategic partnerships with recycling firms specializing in CFRP reclamation.

Long Term (5+ years): Adoption of next-generation carbon fiber recovery technologies to achieve closed-loop recycling.

8.Compliance and Reporting

Sulaco aligns with EU End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) Directive and relevant global standards.

Annual sustainability reports will include metrics on the volume of products returned, recycled, and reused.