Innovative technologies play a major role in the NPM’s goal of demonstrating design options for the development of a greenhouse gas-neutral and sustainable transport system. CO2 emissions in the transport sector can only be sufficiently reduced if alternative drive technologies and alternative fuels are used.
The work of Working Group 2 is central to achieving this goal. WG 2 focuses on alternative propulsion systems and fuels – it is the “technological heart” of the NPM. The aim is to find the best possible solution for every application. There will not be one engine or one fuel that will solve all the the challenges of the mobility sector. Instead, we need to find the mix of technologies that can make the greatest possible contribution to reducing CO2 emissions. In the meantime, the market for electromobility seems to be gaining speed – but this solution is limited, at least for the time being, to passenger vehicles. Other solutions need to be found for other transport sectors, such as shipping or long-haul air transport. It should not be overlooked, however, that while innovative technologies are the greatest lever for reducing emissions, user acceptance for these technologies is indispensable. Without broad public support, the new technologies will at best have ‘niche’ uses.
Working Group 2’s first short report “E-mobility. Fuel cells. Alternative fuels – possible applications from a technological point of view” will show technically feasible options. The report will be available for all interested parties in autumn. At the end of the year, a second report will look at the framework conditions for the use of technologies from a market, consumer and regulatory perspective.
Furthermore, Working Group 2 is cooperating closely with experts outside of the working group, and thus not only achieves a close exchange with the other working groups of the NPM. Members of
WG 2 will also be represented in the “Concerted Mobility Campaign” – recently launched by the Federal Chancellery – and will exchange views with other experts on technological challenges.
