Sustainable Water Use at Volvo Cars Torslanda - An Assessment of Water Use and Potential Reduction Strategies at Volvo Cars Operations in Gothenburg

Abstract

This thesis investigates water use and potential reduction strategies at Volvo Cars’ manufacturing site in Torslanda (VCT), Gothenburg. With increasing global water scarcity and rising costs for municipal water, the automotive industry must identify opportunities for more sustainable water management. In 2024, the total water withdrawal at VCT was 357 700 m³, with the paint shop accounting for approximately 79 % of this volume. Current water use amounts to 1.32 m³/car for manufacturing operations and 2.81 m³/car when non manufacturing operations are included. The aim of this study was to analyze existing water flows, characterize water quality and evaluate strategies for water reuse and recycling. Laboratory work and process mapping were combined with feasibility analysis using a Sustainability Benefit-Cost (SBC) model. Four main actions were evaluated: (1) recycling effluent water to the demineralization process, (2) recycling effluent water to surface treatment processes, (3) reusing wastewater collected from condensate tanks to the demineralization process, and (4) reusing wastewater for processes in TB4. Results indicate that recycling 71 000 m³ of effluent water to the demineralization process could reduce water withdrawal by 20 %, with a short payback time (<1 year) and a high water benefit score (7.5). Reusing wastewater from a collection tank could save an additional 9 300 m³, further reducing water use and organic wastewater volume sent to the municipal treatment plant, Gryaab. If all actions are implemented, total water use could decrease by 22 %, reaching 1.03 m³/car for manufacturing and 2.51 m³/car including all operations. The findings highlight that both economic and environmental benefits can be achieved through strategic water management and investment in water recycling and reuse. However, the long-term success depends on ensuring water quality, addressing membrane degradation, and validating cost assumptions.