Fondation EurActiv organised for Tuesday 29 June a lunchtime Stakeholder Workshop on electric cars and the future of transport. The workshop was organised with the support of The Nickel Institute.

Programme

Europe’s auto sector is undergoing restructuring which many see as an opportunity for a major shift towards cleaner, greener cars. The European Union earmarked €5 billion in its recovery plan for the Green Car initiative; last year, Commissioner Potočnik also challenged the auto industry to come up with practical solutions for the electrification of European transport by 2010.

Which technologies are more likely to benefit Europe’s transport needs? Which among plug-in hybrids, fully electric cars and hydrogen-powered vehicles deserve most investment?

Which battery technologies for fully electric and hybrid cars are available, which still in the pipeline? Is technology ready for both shortdistance and cross-country driving?

How to ensure that the EU becomes a leading actor not only in using, but also in developing and supplying technology?

Winning customers’ acceptance will be crucial to the successful introduction of electric vehicles. What steps must be taken to ensure support for electric cars, and how can public authorities help?

Contributors included:

• András SIEGLER, Director Transport, DG RTD
• Magda KOPCZYŃSKA, Head of Unit Clean Transport, DG MOVE
• Mathieu GROSCH, MEP
• Jean-Pol WIAUX, Director General, RECHARGE
• Willy TOMBOY, Director Environmental Affairs, Toyota
• Jos DINGS, Director, Transport&Environment

Moderator: Gary FINNEGAN, Editor, EurActiv.com

Chair: Ross MELZER, Public Affairs Director, EurActiv.com