Covestro’s post-consumer recycled polycarbonate/ABS material, Bayblend T85X R35 CQ, has been adopted for selected interior components in the Lexus ES.

The material contains 35% post-consumer recycled content and is part of Covestro’s Circular Intelligence portfolio. According to the company’s internal calculations, it delivers a 25% reduction in Global Warming Potential, measured in CO2 equivalents, compared to conventional fossil-based alternatives.

The development was enabled through collaboration between Toyota Motor Corporation, Toyota Motor Kyushu, Kojima Industries Corporation and Covestro. The companies carried out testing and evaluation to ensure the material met performance requirements for premium automotive interiors.

The use of high levels of post-consumer recycled content in visible premium interior parts has traditionally been difficult due to quality, appearance and performance requirements. Covestro said the adoption of Bayblend resin in the Lexus ES demonstrates that recycled-content materials can be used in such applications without compromising standards.

Bayblend T85X R35 CQ meets key requirements including durability, surface quality, dimensional stability and processability. The material can be integrated into existing manufacturing processes and is suitable for both pre-coloured and paintable components.

Fumihiro Togashi, Global Strategic Account Manager, Toyota Group at Covestro, said the collaboration shows that more sustainable materials can meet the required standards of premium automotive applications. He added that the development proves environmental responsibility and product excellence can work together.

Covestro said the material supports circular economy goals and can help automakers prepare for evolving regulatory requirements, including expected quotas under the EU End-of-Life Vehicle Regulation.

The company is also expanding its circular economy solutions through its post-consumer recycled R series, including the recently launched RV line, which uses recycled end-of-life vehicle materials such as headlamps with third-party certification.

Covestro said such developments will support decarbonisation and resource circularity in mobility while helping automotive manufacturers meet future regulatory requirements without compromising product quality.