How serious is the European automotive industry about e-mobility?

Abstract

The presented article discusses the EU industry’s capability of the future automotive development concerning electrified vehicle concepts for passengers. The aim of the analysis is the characterization of the supply side of electric mobility in Europe. Based on the findings within the Electromobility+ project eMAP, the assessment of the European automotive industry takes several factors into account. Such as the investigation of vehicles on the market and near to start-of-production, published corporate strategies, the analysis of co-operation networks within the automotive industry and the assessment of the techno-economic development of key-technologies of electrified powertrains. The results show that all major automotive manufacturers pursue an electrification strategy. The strategies differ and depend on the targeted consumer group. Research efforts in the field of key technologies of electrified powertrains have risen significantly over the past years and dense co-operation networks have been woven between established players in the automotive industry and new entrants. The increasing electrification of powertrains can also be the cause of a change in the value chain of automobile production, shifting from manufacturers to suppliers. Despite a delayed start, the European automotive industry is expected to be competitive in the field of electric vehicles as research