Digital Transformation in the Automotive Dismantling Industry: A Scenario Field Analysis, Recommendations for Action and Strategies

The automotive recycling industry is part of a constantly and dynamically changing environment. In the course of the circular economy, the increasing demand for alternative sources of resources and materials and the advancing digital development in the industry, today’s car dismantlers will face new challenges and opportunities in the coming years. In this paper, a scenario-based methodology is applied to assess possible developments in the industry and develop strategies to be prepared for upcoming changes. The methodology applied consists of developing possible scenarios, analyzing the opportunities and risks of a key scenario and formulating recommendations for action for the industry based on the predicted developments. The identified recommendations focus on six key topics to respond to the potential opportunities and risks in the future. Key topics for the development of the industry are: Cooperation along the value chain, adapting business models, integrating digital technologies, securing employees, expanding expertise and networks, as well as developing and establishing new standards.