Commission outlines new strategy for transport research and innovation
The European Union's investment into research and innovation for a greener and more efficient transport will follow a new strategy. The blueprint, entitled "Towards clean, connected and competitive mobility", is part of a "mobility package" adopted by the European Commission today.
The document outlines short, medium and long term strategies for research and innovation in the transport sector, which correspond to rapidly changing needs. It identifies key areas of transport innovation, and the necessary actions to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative low-carbon technologies in transport.
Carlos Moedas i, Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, said: “Making transport greener and more efficient is a key challenge as we move towards a low-carbon economy. A coordinated research and innovation effort is crucial to tackle this challenge and promote the competitiveness of European industry. That is why this new strategy is so important.”
Since transport is a fast-moving and significant area, it requires close coordination and collaboration within and between the public and private spheres. A range of sectors, from industry and infrastructure to IT and telecoms, also have a role to play in exploring this new frontier.
The strategy focuses in particular on two main areas: automation and connectivity, and electrification of transport. These areas bring about disruptive innovation and significant opportunities for European industry and its competitiveness. They also hold great promise for reducing environmental impact of transport, in line with the Commission's comprehensive agenda for mobility as well as the Energy Union priority.
The document highlights the need to focus on users and citizens in shaping a transport research and innovation strategy, as well as to mobilise stakeholders across all sectors. It is also crucial that the EU i provides roadmaps and establishes innovation-friendly conditions in order to maximise the impact of the investment into research and innovation.
The EU’s active involvement is also essential to overcome the many challenges - such as safety, public acceptance, cybersecurity, use of data, liability and ethical issues - that must be overcome before electrified, connected and automated transport becomes widely available.
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