On 18 November 2014, more than 160 representatives from the automotive industry, European institutions and other stakeholders attended in Brussels the CLEPA E-Mobility event showcasing the first results of the EUNICE project.
E-mobility is becoming a central element in transport policies worldwide since it reduces dependence on oil, cuts CO2, noise emissions and allows the vehicles of tomorrow to be fully integrated into new traffic system models.
“The electrification of powertrains is characterized by a diversification of technological solutions designed to meet sustainable mobility requirements: hybrid, battery, and fuel cell vehicles can serve different mobility needs and purposes. In order to fully become a success story, E-mobility still needs to overcome a few hurdles: safety, availability and affordability are the challenges for the coming years”, said Mr Paul Schockmel, CLEPA CEO.
E-mobility also requires new ways of connecting vehicles to the power grid. The necessary intelligent grid charging infrastructures are to be set up in time to meet the ambitious goals announced by policymakers.
Technical regulation and harmonization of standards must ensure the safety of vehicles and the charging infrastructure. At the same time, standardization measures implemented by individual countries should not adversely impact the harmonization efforts made at international level.
Automotive suppliers are constantly developing innovative solutions: integrating lightweight materials into the vehicle architecture, increasing battery storage capacity and working on fast-charging solutions. Over time, this will also bring down the production cost of future electric vehicles.
The Eunice project is a prime demonstration of latest European technologies. Its main objective is the design, development and validation of a complete in wheel motor assembly prototype to meet the defined car top level specifications.
A strategic approach is crucial for the success of E-mobility in Europe: while automotive suppliers continue to develop innovative technologies, politics need to equal this commitment by investing into the necessary infrastructure. The acceptance and market development of E-mobility needs to be supported by a suitable regulatory framework and appropriate energy and transport policies.
“Tax incentives or bonus payment did not really push the European market. What is needed is to integrate E-mobility in a global multimodal approach. Moreover, investments in research and development must be continued. The EUNICE project is a good example and other should follow”, concluded Mr Paul Schockmel, CLEPA CEO.
