The transition to a sustainable transportation system in Europe requires bold action and innovative public-private partnerships. Across the continent, industry leaders, government agencies, and research institutions are coming together to tackle critical challenges, from decarbonizing freight logistics to accelerating the rollout of electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen-powered solutions.
Intermodal Mobility Solutions
Volvo Group, a leading manufacturer of commercial vehicles, has embraced a collaborative approach to shaping the future of European mobility. By partnering with companies like Renault Group and CMA CGM, Volvo is developing a software-defined electric vehicle platform that will serve as the foundation for a new generation of last-mile delivery trucks and buses. This joint venture, named Flexis SAS, aims to combine the expertise and resources of multiple industry players to bring cost-effective, sustainable transportation solutions to market more quickly.
In another strategic move, Volvo has joined forces with Daimler Truck to create a 50/50 joint venture focused on developing a shared software-defined vehicle platform. This ambitious partnership will leverage the latest advancements in connectivity, automation, and electrification to create a more agile, responsive, and eco-friendly transportation ecosystem.
“Through partnerships, joint ventures, and co-creation, we leverage expertise and technology to create value and accelerate the transition to a sustainable transportation system,” says a Volvo Group spokesperson.
Sustainable Transportation Modes
Alongside these intermodal initiatives, Volvo and its partners are also driving the adoption of clean mobility technologies. The company has collaborated with SSAB, a Swedish steel manufacturer, to introduce fossil-free steel into its heavy-duty, fully-electric truck models, marking a significant milestone in the quest for carbon-neutral vehicle production.
Furthermore, Volvo’s partnership with Ovako, another Swedish company, has enabled the development of a large-scale, fossil-free hydrogen production facility that will fuel the automaker’s growing fleet of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). This innovative solution not only reduces emissions but also creates a new revenue stream by repurposing industrial byproducts.
“Collaborations like these are crucial in our journey towards a net-zero greenhouse gas value chain by 2040,” the spokesperson emphasizes.
Environmental Impact Mitigation
The European Union’s ambitious European Green Deal has provided a powerful impetus for these collaborative sustainability efforts. Through programs such as Horizon Europe, the EU is channeling significant funding and resources into research and innovation projects that address the environmental impact of transportation.
One such initiative is the Volvo LIGHTS (Low Impact Green Heavy Transport Solutions) project, which is transforming freight operations in the United States by demonstrating the capabilities of battery-electric vehicles to improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and benefit disadvantaged communities. This project is a testament to the power of public-private partnerships in driving tangible, on-the-ground change.
Beyond vehicle technology, companies are also exploring circular economy principles to minimize waste and optimize resource use. Volvo’s partnership with BASF, a leading chemical company, focuses on developing low-carbon materials, such as recycled plastics, to be incorporated into their vehicle designs.
Policy and Governance
Supportive policy frameworks and active stakeholder engagement are crucial for accelerating the transition to sustainable transportation in Europe. The Transport, Health and Environment Pan-European Programme (THE PEP), a joint initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), has been at the forefront of this effort.
THE PEP provides a unique platform for member states and other stakeholders to collaborate on integrating environmental and health considerations into transport, mobility, and urban planning policies. By advocating for active and sustainable modes of transportation, THE PEP has been instrumental in promoting the societal benefits of walking, cycling, and other green mobility solutions.
“Through THE PEP, countries have gained a better understanding of the challenges to health and the environment posed by transport, and recognized the opportunities provided by green, healthy and sustainable mobility for improving the health and well-being of their citizens,” notes a spokesperson from WHO/Europe.
Innovative Technologies
The rapid advancement of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) and alternative fuel infrastructure is also driving the sustainable mobility transition in Europe. Volvo’s partnership with Aurora, a leading autonomous vehicle technology company, aims to develop and scale safe and efficient autonomous transport solutions for North American markets.
Simultaneously, the automaker is collaborating with industry players to expand the continent’s electric vehicle charging and hydrogen fueling networks. The Milence project, a joint initiative between Volvo, Daimler Truck, and the TRATON GROUP, will install and operate a high-performance public charging network for heavy-duty electric trucks and coaches across Europe.
These technological innovations, combined with strategic public-private partnerships, are paving the way for a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive transportation system in Europe.
Societal Benefits
The shift towards greener mobility not only benefits the environment but also brings about significant societal advantages. By improving accessibility and equity, sustainable transportation can enhance the quality of life for all citizens, including vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and low-income communities.
Reduced air pollution and increased physical activity from active transportation modes like walking and cycling can also yield substantial health and wellbeing dividends, lowering the burden on public healthcare systems and creating new economic opportunities in the green economy.
“The choices we make today will define the world we will live in tomorrow,” the Volvo Group spokesperson affirms. “That’s why we invite partners, including customers, start-ups, suppliers, academia, and authorities, to collaborate with Volvo Group in the development of future transport and infrastructure solutions.”
As the European Union continues to drive its ambitious decarbonization agenda, the power of collaboration across sectors will be crucial in delivering the sustainable, connected, and resilient transportation system that communities across the continent deserve. Through innovative partnerships and a shared vision for a greener future, Europe is poised to lead the way in sustainable mobility.