22 of the most important ecomobility trends that began in 2021

Here’s the 22 ecomobility trends worldwide that began in 2021, which we think will have major implications in how the global transport and mobility industries will navigate their way towards environmental sustainability during this decade.

1: Lilium develops 7-Seater electric vertical take-off and landing jet

In a bid to position itself as the global leader in regional electric air mobility, Lilium GmbH revealed it was developing the world’s first and only electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) jet. Commercial operations are set to launch in 2024. Lilium’s 600-plus team includes over 400 aerospace engineers and leadership, with a combined 4,000 years of aerospace experience. Founded in 2015, Lilium’s headquarters and manufacturing facilities are in Munich, Germany, with teams based across Europe and the United States

The 7-seater VTOL jet has a projected cruise speed of 175 mph (280 kph) at 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) and a range of over 155 miles (250 km), including reserves. It is the culmination of five years of technology development across four generations of technology demonstrators, including Lilium’s full-scale 5-seater.

Lilium has successfully developed, tested, and refined the underlying technology for electric VTOL jets—Lilium’s proprietary Ducted Electric Vectored Thrust (DEVT) technology, along with critical control systems, aircraft, and battery architecture. DEVT technology enables Lilium to scale to higher-capacity aircraft and keeps noise emissions and ground footprint low.

Lilium can revolutionize regional travel, saving people hours, not minutes. The jet is capable of quiet vertical take-off, allowing Lilium access to more landing sites and the opportunity to build higher network density, avoiding the need for expensive ground infrastructure.

2: REE unveils new platforms for commercial EVs

Tel Aviv-based e-mobility innovator REE Automotive revealed five new and improved REEcorner architecture designs. The company also introduced the technology behind the EV platform’s ability to support the broadest range of commercial electric vehicles. This platform design will advance REE’s modularity by introducing enhanced steering and drive configurations, e-motor power output and payload capabilities.

REE is creating the cornerstone for future zero-emission vehicles. Its mission is to empower global mobility companies to build any size or shape of an electric or autonomous vehicle for any application and any target market. It includes the award-winning REEcorner technology, which packs traditional vehicle drive components (steering, braking, suspension, powertrain and control) into the arch of the wheel, allowing for the flattest EV platform.

 The REEcorners EV platform displays the breadth and depth of versatility afforded to customers when designing vehicles based on their requirements. REE intends to provide a comprehensive range of technical configurations to fulfill specific B2B customer needs. These include EV platform size selection based on preferred length, width and vehicle height; front, rear or all-wheel-drive with peak motor power ranges of 35 to 200 kW; front and all-wheel steer; advanced suspension capabilities; payload capacities of up to 5,000 kg and more.

EVs and AVs built on REE’s technology will also offer unprecedented space for passengers, cargo, and batteries. REE expects that EVs built on their platform will offer up to 35% more interior space than comparable commercial vehicles of similar size, providing much more room for cargo and goods. As a result, fewer delivery routes for reduced carbon impact. Furthermore, REE’s smaller footprint saves valuable space in warehouses and parking while allowing for easy maneuverability in crowded zones.

3: Honda commits to 100% automobile electrification by 2040

Honda Motor Co Ltd President and Representative Director Toshihiro Mibe presented the company’s target and direction of its initiatives. One of those is its environmental initiative. In 2017, Honda first announced its bold target to achieve two-thirds sales of EV models globally by 2030 (hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery/FC EV). This time, it’s greener and more absolute.

“Honda will work comprehensively to address challenges in the areas of the environment and safety. At the same time, for the future, Honda will strive to lead advancements which will be made in the areas of mobility, the power unit, energy, and robotics. Moreover, to have a firm footing in working toward our environmental and safety goals, we will remain committed to ensure the attainment of our goal to solidify our existing businesses,” said Mibe.

Honda is looking at three initiatives to pursue its “zero environmental impact” objective. These initiatives are carbon neutrality, clean energy, and resource circulation. “In addition to the electrification of our motorcycle and automobile products, we will expand the range of electrified products with our Honda Mobile Power Pack swappable battery and expand utilization of renewable energy by enabling infrastructure-linked smart power operations,” Mibe added.

Including more effective ways to reuse and recycle batteries, Honda is pursuing research on material recycling and will take on the challenge of developing products made from 100% sustainable materials. “We also will continue to work on the concept of “Honda eMaaS” through which Honda will contribute to the “freedom of mobility” and “expanded use of renewable energy” by connecting electrified mobility products and energy service. Honda eMaaS will be steadily pursued while focusing three core areas namely: expansion of the utilization of Mobile Power Packs, utilization of large-capacity batteries for electrified vehicles, and application and implementation of fuel cell systems,” Mibe clarified.

According to Honda, to achieve its carbon-free goal on a “tank-to-wheel” basis, as the responsibility of an automaker, it will strive to increase the ratio of its battery-electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCVs) within overall unit sales. It refers to all significant markets of electrification combined to 40% by 2030, to 80% by 2035, and then to 100% globally by 2040. By mid-part of the decade, Honda will launch a series of new EV models which adopt “e:Architecture,” an entirely new EV platform. The automaker will first introduce these models to the North American market and then to other world regions.

4: Volta Zero is world’s 1st purpose-built full-electric truck

Volta Zero, manufactured by Volta Trucks, is the world’s first purpose-built full-electric, 16-ton electric truck designed for inner-city freight deliveries, reducing the environmental impact of freight deliveries in city centers. Designed from the ground up with an operating pure-electric range of 150 to 200 km, the Volta Zero will eliminate an estimated 180,000 tons of CO2 by 2025.

Volta Trucks has offices in Sweden, France, and the United Kingdom, and has partnered with global leaders in the supply chain to develop and produce the Volta Zero. As a full-electric vehicle brand, sustainability is at the company’s core. By 2025, it aims to have saved over 1,190,000 tons of tailpipe CO2 from the atmosphere—the equivalent annual CO2 usage of 160,000 houses—and improved city-center air quality by emitting no pollutants.

In real terms, just one Volta Zero could potentially remove up to five smaller trucks or vans from the roads, reducing congestion from city streets and improving air quality.

The standard battery capacity is at 150 kWh (usable), while the high-capacity battery is at 225 kWh (usable). This electric truck is capable of running at a maximum 90 kph. The three-seater electric truck has heated and cooled seats, touchscreen vehicle controls with a central driving position.

The prototype Volta Zero made its debut in September 2020.

5: Panama Canal eyes carbon neutrality by 2030, commences transition

The Panama Canal management launched decarbonizing operations to become carbon neutral by 2030. “We at the Panama Canal are committed to sustainability, and therefore are laying the foundation, creating the tools, and identifying the changes needed to achieve efficiencies that will allow us as an organization to reach carbon neutrality. This is a fundamental strategy for the waterway’s long-term operation and sustainability,” said Panama Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales. “This process will build on our long-standing efforts to minimize our environmental impact, including encouraging customers to use clean fuels and reduce their carbon footprint.”

While the Panama Canal contributed to a reduction of more than 13 million tons of CO2 equivalent emissions in 2020 by offering a shorter route for ships in comparison to the most likely alternative routes, the waterway recognizes the importance of making its operation carbon neutral by the end of the decade.

The waterway administration purchased four EVs as part of a pilot program to collect data to inform the migration of the Canal’s entire fleet away from fossil fuel dependence. Part of its strategic decarbonization plan includes tugboats and launches that use alternative fuels, the substitution of electricity production processes in favor of photovoltaic plants, the use of hydraulic energy, and ensuring that all facilities and infrastructure projects are environmentally responsible and sustainable.

As part of the new national initiative, the Canal will develop an annual greenhouse gas inventory and an action plan with measurable targets to reduce emissions. It will factor the Canal’s efforts into Panama’s National Determined Contribution (NDC), established by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), following the Paris Agreement.

6: All-Electric Ford F-150 Lightning unveiled

Ford Motor Co finally entered the all-electric pickup truck race with the launch of the F-150 Lightning. This newest all-electric pickup is the smartest, most innovative truck Ford has ever built. From near-instant torque to intelligent towing, seamless connectivity to software updates, plus power for homes, a power frunk and a digital screen that’s larger than any currently offered on a full-size truck—F-150 Lightning is driving and ownership an experience unlike any other.

F-150 Lightning rolled off 2021 at a new high-tech factory using sustainable manufacturing practices at Ford’s storied Rouge complex in Dearborn just outside Detroit. It is a pillar of the company’s more than $22-billion global EV plan to lead electrification in areas of strength. Ford starts with zero-emissions versions of its most popular and best-loved franchises—Mustang, Transit and F-150—with much more to come in the years ahead.

The F-150 Lightning targets 563 hp, 1,050 Nm of near-instantaneous torque—more than any F-150 ever – and a 0-60 mph time in the mid-4-second range when equipped with an extended-range battery on typical industry methodology. F-150 Lightning targets a maximum of 2,000 pounds of payload in the standard-range model with 18-inch wheels and 10,000 pounds of available towing capacity on XLT and Lariat trucks with the extended-range battery and Max Trailer Tow Package. The low center of gravity brings even more confident handling whether travelling along rain-slicked roads or through the sand. F-150 Lightning offers two options: a standard-range battery targeting 230 miles of EPA-estimated range and an extended-range battery targeting 300 miles of EPA-estimated range.

Making its truck debut on F-150 Lightning in the Lariat and Platinum series is SYNC 4A—a sleek, modern interface supported by a 15.5-inch touch screen designed to adapt to driver behavior. SYNC 4A employs natural voice control, cloud-connected navigation and wireless access to your favorite services: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, integrated Amazon Alexa and SYNC AppLink apps.

Debuting on F-150 Lightning is available Ford Intelligent Backup Power, turning your truck into the ultimate power source for your home. With the ability to offload 9.6 kilowatts of power, Ford Intelligent Backup Power keeps the lights on during an outage while providing security by powering home appliances, security systems and more.

7: Mercedes-Benz eyes full-electrification by 2030

As more and more automakers have revealed their respective plans to go full-electric, the German luxury vehicle manufacturer followed suit by recently announcing their take on the race to go green. By 2022, Mercedes-Benz will have battery electric vehicles (BEV) in all segments the company serves. Then starting 2025 and onwards, all newly launched vehicle architectures will be electric-only. Customers will be able to choose an all-electric alternative for every model the company makes. Mercedes-Benz intends to manage this accelerated transformation while sticking to its profitability targets.

“The EV shift is picking up speed—especially in the luxury segment, where Mercedes-Benz belongs. The tipping point is getting closer, and we will be ready as markets switch to electric-only by the end of this decade,” said Ola Källenius, CEO of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG. “This step marks a profound reallocation of capital. By managing this faster transformation while safeguarding our profitability targets, we will ensure the enduring success of Mercedes-Benz. Thanks to our highly qualified and motivated workforce, I am convinced that we will be successful in this exciting new era.”

To facilitate this shift, Mercedes-Benz is unveiling a comprehensive plan which includes significantly accelerating R&D. In total, investments into battery electric vehicles between 2022 and 2030 will amount to over €40 billion. Accelerating and advancing the EV portfolio plan will bring forward the tipping point for EV adoption.

Infrastructure-wise, Mercedes-Benz will launch three electric-only architectures in 2025. The “MB.EA” will cover all medium to large passenger cars, establishing a scalable modular system as the electric backbone for the future EV portfolio. Next is the “AMG.EA,” which will be a dedicated performance EV platform addressing technology and performance-oriented Mercedes-AMG customers. Last is the “VAN.EA” to usher in a new era for purpose-made electric vans and light commercial vehicles (LCVs), which will contribute to emission-free transportation and cities in the future.

As soon as 2022, eight Mercedes-Benz EVs will be produced at seven locations on three continents. Furthermore, all passenger car and battery assembly sites run by Mercedes-Benz AG will switch to carbon-neutral production by 2022. Mercedes-Benz is joining forces with GROB to enhance manufacturing efficiency, a German global leader in highly innovative battery production and automation systems, strengthening its battery production capacity and know-how. (Story and photo: Mercedes-Benz)

8: United Airlines leads switch to SAF via Eco-Skies Alliance Program

United Airlines continues to lead the industry towards a more sustainable future with the recent launch of the Eco-Skies Alliance Program—the first-of-its-kind. Working with the airline, more than a dozen leading global corporations collectively contributed towards the purchase of approximately 3.4 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in 2021. With its nearly 80% emissions reductions on a lifecycle basis compared to conventional jet fuel, this is enough SAF to eliminate approximately 31,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, or enough to fly passengers over 220 million miles.

The new Eco-Skies Alliance SM program includes global corporate leaders who, with United, will pay towards more SAF, all companies invited to participate. As inaugural participants, these companies take the lead within their respective industries, reducing their aviation-related impact on the environment at the source, and creating demand for more SAF production. These companies are Autodesk, Boston Consulting Group, CEVA Logistics, Deloitte, DHL Global Forwarding, DSV Panalpina, HP Inc, Nike, Palantir, Siemens, and Takeda Pharmaceuticals.

“While we’ve partnered with companies for years to help them offset their flight emissions, we applaud those participating in the Eco-Skies Alliance for recognizing the need to go beyond carbon offsets and support SAF-powered flying, which will lead to more affordable supply and ultimately, lower emissions,” said United CEO Scott Kirby. “This is just the beginning. Our goal is to add more companies to the Eco-Skies Alliance program, purchase more SAF and work across industries to find other innovative paths towards decarbonization.”

United has made the airline industry’s single most significant investment in SAF and has purchased more SAF than any other airline in the world. World Energy, a long-term partner of United, will supply the SAF to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which makes it conveniently accessible to United’s operations.

In addition to the Eco-Skies Alliance program, United is giving customers the ability to contribute funds for additional SAF purchases or for use on initiatives United believes will help decarbonize aviation—the first of any US airline to do so. Understanding there is a growing interest among customers for real, lasting solutions, this new capability will be available starting immediately via the portal on united.com/ecoskiesalliance(Story and photo: United)

9: Ford commits to battery ventures with SK Innovation

Ford recently formed a joint venture with SK Innovation. Both companies inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to create a joint venture called “BlueOvalSK.” The venture’s objective is to produce approximately 60 GWh annually in traction battery cells and array modules, starting mid-decade, with the potential to expand.

“This MoU is just the start; it’s a key part of our plan to vertically integrate key capabilities that will differentiate Ford far into the future,” said Jim Farley, Ford president, and CEO. “We will not cede our future to anyone else.”

Kim Jun, SK Innovation CEO and president, for his part, shared, “We are delighted to be entering into collaboration with Ford, America’s leading and iconic automaker. Ford is one of the most active players in vehicle electrification today. We are proud to be opening this new chapter in their long history. Our JV with Ford will play a pivotal role in fleshing out the EV value chain in the United States, a key objective of the current US administration.”

Established as South Korea’s first oil refining company in 1962, SK Innovation engages in diverse business areas, including exploration and production (E&P), batteries, and information and electronics materials. It owns SK Energy, South Korea’s leading refining company; SK Global Chemical, the leader in the domestic petrochemical industry; SK Lubricants, a global lubricants company; SK Incheon Petrochem, a refining and chemical company; SK Trading International, a trader of crude oils and petrochemicals; and SK IE Technology, global information, and electronic material solution company.

Further, the company has pioneered mid-to large-size EV batteries since 1991 and has expanded its battery operations globally since 2010. SK already operates a battery plant in Commerce, Georgia, USA – serving two global OEMs – and is expanding its production capacity in the European Union and China. SK Innovation plans to become one of the world’s top three EV battery suppliers by 2025 with over 125 GWh in global production capacity. (Story and photos: Ford Motor Company)

10: Daimler Truck AG intensifies partnership with CATL

Commercial vehicle manufacturer Daimler Truck AG and lithium-ion battery manufacturer and developer Contemporary Amperex Technology Company Limited (CATL) recently announced their intensified existing partnership based on a shared vision of CO2-neutral electrified trucking. The strengthened collaboration will make CATL the supplier of lithium-ion battery packs for the Mercedes-Benz eActros LongHaul battery-electric truck. It is planned to be ready for series production in 2024, and that the supply will go beyond 2030.

These batteries will combine high-energy density with ultra-long cycle life and fast-charging ability to meet the unique requirements of battery-electric long-haul trucks. In addition, the companies intend to jointly design and develop even more advanced next-generation battery cells and packs for truck-specific applications, with a focus on high modularity and scalability to support different truck applications and flexible compatibility with future e-truck models.

In 2019, Daimler Truck AG and CATL entered a global lithium-ion battery cell modules-supply agreement for electric series trucks, including the Mercedes-Benz eActros, the Freightliner eCascadia, and eM2. In September 2020, Daimler Truck AG announced the eActros LongHaul, which would have a range of about 500 kilometers for energy-efficient transport on planned long-haul routes.

“Partnerships are vital for us to deliver on our commitment to the Paris Agreement and our ultimate goal of achieving CO2-neutral transport on the roads, on which we are working at full speed. Expanding and strengthening our strong collaboration with CATL will play a key role as we accelerate our electrification activities and lead the way to zero emissions in the truck industry. We will launch a wide range of customer-oriented, innovative series-produced electric trucks from 2021 onwards,” said Martin Daum, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler Truck AG and Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG.

On the other hand, CATL is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries, with businesses covering R&D, manufacturing, and sales in battery systems for new energy vehicles and energy storage systems. In 2020, CATL’s EV battery consumption volume ranked number one in the world for four consecutive years, according to SNE Research. (Story and photos: Daimler Truck AG)

11: Singapore Airlines Group, Cathay Pacific Airways set net-zero carbon emissions by 2050

Two major airline operators in Asia announced their respective pledges to net-zero carbon emissions. The Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group and Cathay Pacific Airways target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The commitment to go green reinforces its long-standing strategy of working towards decarbonization and environmental sustainability across its operations for SIA. The group’s airlines, Singapore Airlines, Scoot, and SIA Cargo, will use multiple levers to achieve this goal. These include investing in new-generation aircraft, achieving higher operational efficiency, adopting low-carbon technology such as sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), and sourcing high-quality carbon offsets.

Cathay Pacific Airways sees that SAF, carbon offsetting, and reducing emissions are the key factors to achieve greener aviation. Cathay Pacific Group thus became one of the first airlines in Asia to establish a carbon neutrality timeline. The airline’s commitment precedes the release of the group’s Sustainable Development Report 2020, which details the Group’s strategy and performance in environmental, social, and governance aspects.

The SIA Group’s aircraft fleet has an average age of five years, 10 months, and it continues to invest in the latest technology. The group’s order book comprises new-generation models such as Airbus’ A350-900 and A320neo Family and Boeing’s 777-9, 787 Family, and 737-8 Max. These aircraft are up to 30% more fuel-efficient and have reduced carbon emissions compared to older models.

On the other hand, Cathay Pacific has invested in, and has increased its use of SAF, intending to make it viable for mainstream adoption. Compared to traditional jet fuel, SAF can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80%. The group has committed to purchasing 1.1 million tons of SAF over 10 years, covering around 2% of its total fuel requirements from 2023 onwards. Moreover, Cathay Pacific is upgrading to a new fuel-efficient fleet and reducing engines used on the ground. The company is also committed to cutting its ground emissions by 32% from the 2018 baseline before 2030. (Story and photos: Singapore Airlines Group and Cathay Pacific Airways)

12: IMO implements measures to reduce shipping carbon intensity

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) announced its implementation of new mandatory measures to cut the carbon intensity of international shipping. The new system will set the industry on a course to meet greenhouse gas reduction targets established in the 2018 Initial IMO Strategy for Reducing GHG Emissions from Ships.

During the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 76) meeting, it adopted amendments to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (Marpol) Annex VI that would require ships to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. These amendments combine technical and operational approaches to improve the energy efficiency of vessels, also providing essential building blocks for future GHG reduction measures.

The new measures will require all vessels to calculate their Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) following technical means to improve energy efficiency and establish their annual operational carbon intensity indicator (CII) and CII rating. Carbon intensity links the GHG emissions to the amount of cargo carried over the distance traveled. Alphabetical ratings will represent the ship’s energy efficiency (with A being the highest).

Administrations, port authorities, and other stakeholders are encouraged to provide incentives to ships rated as A or B. Thus, also sending out a strong signal to the market and financial sector. However, a D or E rating for three consecutive years would require submitting a corrective action plan to show how to achieve the required index (C or above).

The combined technical and operational measures, referred to as short-term carbon intensity measures, are in line with the ambition of the Initial IMO GHG Strategy, which aims to reduce the carbon intensity of international shipping by 40% by 2030, compared to 2008. The initial strategy sets out variable term measures, and the measures adopted fall into the short-term measures. (Story and photos: International Maritime Organization)

13: Volvo Cars commits to full electrification by 2030

Volvo Cars plans to become a fully electric car company by 2030. By then, the company intends only to sell fully electric cars and phase out any vehicle in its global portfolio with an internal combustion engine, including hybrids. The 2030 ambition represents an acceleration of the automaker’s electrification strategy, driven by strong demand for its electrified cars in recent years and a firm conviction that the market for combustion engine cars is shrinking.

As part of its ambitious climate plan, the company’s transition towards becoming a fully electric car maker stems from the goal to consistently reduce the life cycle carbon footprint per car through concrete action. Its decision also builds on the expectation that legislation and a rapid expansion of accessible, high-quality charging infrastructure will accelerate consumer acceptance of fully electric cars.

Further, Volvo’s move towards full electrification comes together with an increased focus on online sales and a more complete, attractive, and transparent consumer offer under the name Care by Volvo. As such, all fully electric models will be available online only.

Volvo Cars launched its first fully electric car, the XC40 Recharge, in markets around the globe in 2020. The company revealed its second fully electric car, a new model in the 40 Series. In coming years, Volvo Cars will roll out several additional electric models, with more to follow. By 2025, it aims for 50% of its global sales to consist of fully electric cars, with the rest hybrids. By 2030, every vehicle it sells should be fully electric.

In support of this goal, Volvo announced its intention to establish a joint venture with leading Swedish battery company Northvolt. The partnership is set to develop and produce more sustainable batteries tailored to power the next generation of pure electric Volvo and Polestar cars. (Story and photos: Volvo Cars Group)

14: Fiat to go full electric by 2030, to convert factory rooftop into hanging gardens

During World Environment Day 2021, Fiat CEO and Stellantis CMO Olivier François and Stefano Boeri, an architect, urban planner, and the founder of Stefano Boeri Architetti, discussed how mobility and architecture could work together to create the cities of the future. They addressed the themes of urban mobility and sustainable architecture to make cities easier and healthier to live in.

This sharing of values began over a year ago, before the pandemic. Fiat drew inspiration from the green architecture created by Boeri in several locations around the world. Featured in the European launch advert for the all-electric New 500 was the Utopian City vision.

The company is exploring sustainable mobility for all as its most significant project. “Between 2025 and 2030, our product line-up will gradually become electric-only. This will be a radical change for Fiat. Meanwhile, in the near future, I am proud that we will see the conversion of the legendary track on the roof of the former Lingotto factory in Turin into the largest hanging gardens in Europe, hosting over 28,000 plants. A major, meaningful—and once again sustainable—project, due to revitalizing the city of Turin, our home,” François revealed.

Meanwhile, Stefano Boeri considers that cities are responsible for more than 70% of CO2 emissions, which are at the root of global warming and the emissions of pollutants that endanger our health. “We already have a variety of solutions at our disposal: protecting and increasing permeable and green surfaces in the city; creating new parks and gardens; transforming city roofs into lawns and vegetable gardens; transforming perimeter walls and urban barriers into green façades; promoting community gardens and implementing urban agriculture; using tree roots to decontaminate polluted soil; creating a network of green corridors to connect parks, forests and green buildings; exponentially increasing the number of green buildings and vertical forests; creating new green belt forests and woodlands all around our cities,” Boeri explained. (Story and photos: Stellantis Group)

15: Hamburg Airport, Lufthansa Technik gear up for hydrogen tech

The aerospace industry in Hamburg is gearing up to adopt hydrogen technology for its aviation operation. The starting signal has now sounded for the set-up of a new development platform. Accordingly, there will be early testing of maintenance and ground processes for future aircraft generations.

Over the next two years and with funds provided by Hamburg, Lufthansa Technik, and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the Center for Applied Aeronautical Research (ZAL), and Hamburg Airport will design and test extensive maintenance and ground processes in handling hydrogen technology. For this purpose, an aircraft of the Airbus A320 family will convert into a stationary laboratory at Lufthansa Technik’s base in Hamburg.

Liquid hydrogen (LH2) is increasingly becoming a more concrete goal in the development departments of large aircraft manufacturers as a sustainably produced fuel for future generations of commercial aircraft. To investigate the effects of the use of LH2 on maintenance and ground processes at an early stage, Lufthansa Technik, DLR, ZAL, and Hamburg Airport are now pooling their extensive practical and scientific expertise. The aim is to develop a pioneering demonstrator jointly and to operate it from 2022.

As the world’s third-largest aviation location, the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg is funding the research project with the largest single item in its particular program to mitigate the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the aviation industry.

In the first phase of the project, by the end of 2021, the partners aim to identify the most urgent fields of development for closer scientific examination and, on this basis, to elaborate the concept for subsequent practical testing. The practical implementation of the idea will start at the beginning of 2022 and involve modifying a decommissioned Airbus A320 aircraft. It will be equipped with an LH2 infrastructure as a fully functional field laboratory at Lufthansa Technik’s base in Hamburg. In parallel, a virtual environment is in the works at DLR to achieve digital and highly accurate mapping of the defined development fields. The new development platform will inspire the design process of the next generation of aircraft, utilizing parameterized and highly exact virtual models. (Story and photo: Lufthansa Technik)

16: Volkswagen Group Logistics to bring in more low-emission ships

Volkswagen made its mark by being the first automaker to transport most of its new vehicles overseas using low-emission LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) ships. After the initial two LNG car carriers entered service in 2020, Volkswagen Group Logistics has now ordered four more ships with dual-fuel engines that can run on environmentally friendly liquid gas.

These vessels should be traveling the world’s oceans by the end of 2023, serving the North American route between Emden in Germany and Veracruz in Mexico. On the return trip, the LNG ships will transport new vehicles destined for Europe. The good news is that six of the nine-car carriers crossing the North Atlantic for Volkswagen will soon be running on LNG as well.

The further decarbonization of shipping will result in substantial CO2 reductions, with the use of liquid gas enabling Volkswagen to cut the ships’ CO2 emissions by up to 25% (tank-to-wake). “In line with the Group’s commitment to e-mobility and climate-neutral production, the LNG fleet used by Logistics represents a major contribution to making Volkswagen net carbon neutral by 2050,” said Simon Motter, Head of Volkswagen Group Logistics.

Volkswagen was one of the first car manufacturers to subscribe to the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement that aim to limit global warming to significantly less than two degrees by 2050. The Volkswagen Group has, therefore, committed to e-mobility and the sustainable production and use of new EVs. The company follows the principle of focusing first on the avoidance of CO2 emissions and then on reducing emissions as far as possible. Climate protection measures offset only unavoidable emissions.

In Germany, the group has already switched all rail transport with Deutsche Bahn to green electricity, and is extending this to transport throughout Europe. The group already operates two car carriers with biofuel produced from plant-based residues such as waste oil from the food industry on coastal routes. It has resulted in an 85% reduction in CO2 emissions (well-to-wake). (Story and photo: Volkswagen Group)

17: Faraday Future’s FF 91 to reformat future of mobility

In 2017, Startup EV company Faraday Future (FF), a global shared intelligent mobility ecosystem company headquartered in Los Angeles, California, revealed its first production model, the FF 91 (“nine one”). Built upon the company’s Variable Platform Architecture (VPA), the FF 91 represented a bold new breed of electric mobility that combines supercar performance, precise handling, the comfort of an ultra-luxury passenger vehicle, and a unique collection of intelligent internet features. Production of FF 91 commenced in 2018.

Established in May 2014, FF has implemented numerous innovations relating to its products, technology, business model, profit model, user ecosystem, and governance structure. FF is the only company with US and China dual DNA and dual home-market advantages.

FF’s proprietary VPA is a flexible powertrain system featuring a monocoque vehicle structure. The chassis and body are a single form providing measurable improvements in overall vehicle rigidity, safety, and handling. There is an available all-wheel-drive system that offers more excellent traction, control, and precise power distribution. The VPA also houses class-leading battery technology, multiple motor and battery configurations, and the company’s first patent: The FF Echelon Inverter.

FF 91’s powertrain features a multi-motor setup, enabling real-time torque vectoring to the rear wheels. This technology delivers superior acceleration, safety while leveraging rear-wheel steering for agile cornering, allowing drivers to confidently execute maneuvers like merging onto freeways or accelerating out of dangerous scenarios. Peak motor power is 783 kW, equating to 1050 HP, delivering a record-breaking 0-60 mph time of 2.39 seconds.

FF 91’s battery technology does not sacrifice range for performance. Outfitted with a 130-kWh battery, FF 91 achieves an estimated range of 378 miles (608 km) on the EPA cycle and over 700 km on the NEDC cycle from the world’s highest energy density battery, engineered in partnership with LG Chem. (Story and photos: Faraday Future)

Meet Super73, an American lifestyle adventure brand fusing motorcycle heritage and youth culture. This exciting company rose from the desire to inspire and create adventure and community. Founded in 2016 and based in Southern California, Super73 has led the charge in pioneering a new approach to help redefine the electric motorbike industry.

In early 2020, the e-bike manufacturer introduced its latest flagship R-Series model. But they did not stop there. The company then unveiled its newest collaboration model with Hot Wheels, the same company known for manufacturing diecast models. Meet the Hot Wheels x Super73-RX.

This newest collaborative project is a street-legal electric motorbike currently available only in the United States, does not require a license or registration. Available in a strictly limited edition of just 24 bikes, this unique RX has custom designs to capture Hot Wheels’ spirit and celebrate its incredible legacy.

The Hot Wheels x Super73-RX features Super73’s most powerful and technologically advanced drive system with multi-class ride modes and powered by a state-of-the-art 960 watt-hour battery. Super73-RX also runs Super73’s all-new connected electronics suite and is compatible with iOS and Android mobile devices through the new Super73 Application.

Meanwhile, the new flagship model R-Series introduced the most powerful and technologically advanced Super73 drive system, featuring multi-class ride modes. Each bike is programmed with a Class-2 riding mode, which allows for throttle operation and pedal-assist riding up to 20mph (32 kph). It enables the R-Series owners to legally ride on most bike paths without a license, insurance, or registration. And while most electric bicycles use a 400-700 watt-hour battery, the R-Series is powered by a state-of-the-art 960 watt-hour battery: The largest in its segment. It provides an estimated 40+ (64 km) miles of range at 20mph when using throttle-only operation and an estimated 75+ miles (121 km) of range using the ECO pedal assist mode. (Story and photos: Super73)

19: Embraer partners with AvFuel

Embraer and Avfuel Corp announced their collaboration to bring Neste MY sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to Melbourne Orlando International Airport. The agreement came as Embraer announced its commitment to climate action, such as achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040, and to support the aviation industry’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. These commitments include integrating the use of SAF into its sustainability initiatives.

As part of the collaboration, Avfuel supplies Embraer with Neste MY SAF at its Melbourne, Florida, facility by delivering the fuel to Sheltair (KMLB) for storage and handling. Embraer aims to use SAF in ongoing operations at its executive jet’s headquarters in Melbourne. Avfuel provided its first delivery of the fuel to Embraer at Sheltair Melbourne on July 14 last year. Each truckload (approximately 8,000 gallons) of the fuel from Neste’s Houston location provides a 19.1-metric ton reduction in carbon emissions over its lifecycle—equivalent to the amount of carbon sequestered by 23.4 acres of US forests per year. SAF is the most effective way to reduce a flight’s carbon footprint, and, in the future, SAF could deliver up to 80% less greenhouse gas emissions versus traditional jet fuel in its neat form.

Embraer is a global aerospace company headquartered in Brazil and has businesses in commercial and executive aviation, defense and security, and agricultural aviation. The company designs, manufactures, and markets aircraft and systems, providing services and support to customers’ aftersales. Since it was founded in 1969, Embraer has delivered more than 8,000 aircraft. On average, about every 10 seconds, an aircraft manufactured by Embraer takes off somewhere in the world, transporting over 145 million passengers a year.

Further, Embraer is the leading manufacturer of commercial jets of up to 150 seats, and the leading exporter of high value-added goods in Brazil. The company maintains industrial units, offices, service, and parts distribution centers, among other activities, across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Embraer and Avfuel are part of the Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, launched in 2018. They have been promoting discussions on the path forward for the continued adoption of SAF in business aviation and supporting industry-leading events. Embraer is flying its entire portfolio of business jets to some of those events on SAF. The coalition has a goal of reducing emissions through investments and innovation. (Story and photo: Embraer)

20: Canoo releases company sustainability manifesto

Since its public introduction, Canoo has proven successful in its drive to bring practical yet state-of-the-art sustainable mobility to consumers. To date, it has successfully introduced three EV segments catering to sought-after platforms. Recently, the company that developed breakthrough EVs with a proprietary and highly versatile platform for personal and business use has also finally released its sustainability manifesto. Its mission: To bring EVs to everyone.

“At Canoo, we are uncompromising in our quest to bring EV technology to the heartland to benefit jobs, the environment, and our communities,” said Tony Aquila, Chairman and CEO of Canoo.

In the released manifesto, the company believes that an unstoppable alliance is rising in the world, one that seeks to join prosperity, the environment, and technology to unlock profound benefits for people and the planet. This alliance transcends national boundaries and political spectrums.

According to Canoo, the world must reimagine and reinvent mobility. It is the force-multiplier in the dream of a more sustainable world. The mobility sector fuels human possibility, connecting us, and underlying our work and exploration. Radical collaboration and bold new alliances are needed to transform the transportation industry from the biggest polluter to the biggest game-changer for good.

The company is passionate about the creation of a net carbon zero transportation economy. Further, it is committed to engineering the impossible—bringing productive, sustainable mobility to everyone. “At the core of our solution revolution is our proprietary, highly versatile multi-purpose platform, which can support a broad range of use cases. Our vehicles unite power, usability, reliability, and elegance, all designed to lift working people and our shared environment.” As such, Canoo has built and tested a range of vehicles and eyes start of production in late 2022. (Story and photo: Canoo Inc)

21: Lotus EV product plan revealed

Group Lotus has a new division, and it recently launched its global headquarters in Wuhan, China. The new division, Lotus Technology, is a global “intelligent technology” subsidiary that augments the brand’s DNA and technology accumulated over the company’s 73- year heritage. Its role is to accelerate batteries and energy management, electric motors, electronic control systems, intelligent driving, intelligent manufacturing, and more.

The new Lotus Technology headquarters targets completion by 2024. As an all-new Lotus factory, its main operation is to manufacture Lotus EVs for global markets. The EV plant opened late in 2021.

The new Lotus manufacturing plant complements the existing UK sports car manufacturing and performance facilities in Hethel and Norwich. It has been built with the world’s most advanced manufacturing technologies to become a global center of excellence for Lotus’ premium lifestyle models. Covering an area of over 1 million sqm2 with an investment of over 8 billion RMB (£900m), the plant can ramp up to the production of 150,000 vehicles a year.

Working hand in hand, China-based Lotus Technology and the UK-based Lotus team are at the core of Group Lotus’ future development strategy. Lotus in the UK will be responsible for developing and producing sports cars and the Evija electric hypercar and coordinating global sales for the Lotus brand. Lotus Technology in China will be responsible for integrating a new generation of lifestyle products. It will bring together China’s EV and manufacturing specialisms, the UK’s design and advanced performance centers, and Germany-based R&D resources (Lotus Technology Innovation Centre, Raunheim), as well as the global development and production of premium intelligent drive technologies. The China and UK teams will empower Group Lotus’ transformation towards an expanded, intelligent, and electric future.

In 2022, Lotus will debut an E-segment SUV codenamed Type 132. It will be followed in 2023 by an E-segment four-door coupe, Type 133. Come 2025, Type 134 will debut as a new D-segment SUV. Then the EV triumvirate will join the all-new electric sports car launch Type 135 in 2026. The new models are in addition to the Evija all-electric hypercar and the Emira, the last petrol-powered sports car, and Hethel, UK-built from Lotus. (Story and photo: Group Lotus)

22: New York State establishes 2035 zero emissions goal 

Ahead of Climate Week 2021, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced new actions to reduce climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution from the transportation sector. The Governor signed legislation (A.4302/S.2758), setting a goal for all new passenger cars and trucks sold in New York State to be zero emissions by 2035. Moreover, she directed the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to release a proposed regulation that significantly reduces air pollution from trucks.

The regulation would accelerate zero-emission truck sales, resulting in improved air quality statewide and those communities disproportionately impacted by transportation-related pollution. The actions support New York’s ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050, as outlined in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, or CLCPA.

“New York is implementing the nation’s most aggressive plan to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions affecting our climate, and to reach our ambitious goals; we must reduce emissions from the transportation sector, currently the largest source of the state’s climate pollution,” said Hochul. “The new law and regulation mark a critical milestone in our efforts and will further advance the transition to clean EVs while helping to reduce emissions in communities that have been overburdened by pollution from cars and trucks for decades.”

Under the new law, new off-road vehicles and equipment sold in New York are targeted to be zero-emissions by 2035 and new medium-duty and heavy-duty vehicles by 2045. The law also requires developing a zero-emissions vehicle development strategy by 2023, which will be led by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSerda) to expedite the implementation of the state policies and programs necessary to achieve the law’s new goals.

NYSerda President and CEO Doreen M. Harris stated that stronger regulations to reduce emissions would help communities, particularly in densely populated, underserved areas, which typically face higher pollution levels from trucks and vehicles. “The announcement will help create a more sustainable future, meaning all New Yorkers can embrace a lower carbon footprint and healthier places to live and work, as we accelerate toward meeting New York State’s clean transportation goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act,” she said. (Story and photo: New York Governor Press Office)