Ferrous and non-ferrous metals
- Steel: steel is the undisputed protagonist; it is present in the body, chassis, engine and many other components. Its price is influenced by demand from the steel industry, energy costs and international trade policies.
- Aluminium , Copper, Zinc, Lead: Aluminium, light and corrosion-resistant, is widely used in engines and car bodies. Copper is found in electrical wiring, while Zinc is often used for galvanising. The pricing of these metals is influenced by factors such as demand from the electronics and construction sectors, as well as supply dynamics from major producing countries such as China.
- Plastics: plastics account for an ever-increasing share of a car's weight; they are used for interiors, exteriors, electronic components and much more. The value of scrap plastics depends on the type of polymer, the purity of the material and the difficulty of separating it from other materials.