The ZEV-UP project is on a mission to revolutionise clean mobility with the introduction of a frugal Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) designed for both passenger and commercial needs. To enhance user acceptance and the market uptake of the ZEV-UP vehicle, the project is putting user needs at the core of its approach and has conducted extensive research into user preferences and the factors influencing the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its first technical deliverable.
The ZEV-UP partners have been working on advancing the understanding of user needs and market trends related to EVs, laying the groundwork for the frugal and affordable vehicle concept the project is developing. This research is crucial to ensure the ZEV-UP vehicle aligns with the actual needs of users to increase its market visibility. Electric cars are central to the European Union’s strategy to decarbonise transport and achieve climate neutrality by 2050. Launched under the 2Zero Partnership, a co-programmed partnership founded by the European Commission, ZEV-UP contributes to the 2Zero and European Union’s zero tailpipe emission objectives. The project advances innovative vehicle technologies for BEVs that are affordable and user-centric to accelerate their acceptance and improve air quality in urban areas, reinforcing Europe’s leadership in carbon-neutral transport solutions.
ZEV-UP has performed a thorough analysis of user needs and the current and future market landscape for BEVs to advance the understanding of the key drivers and barriers to the adoption of frugal BEVs. The project first evaluated various user-centric BEV concepts, including electric two-seaters, four-seaters, and commercial variants. These concepts were assessed based on classification, body style, price, technical specifications such as battery range and top speeds, and design features, with an emphasis on practicality and cost-effectiveness for urban and business uses. This will directly inform the development of the ZEV-UP variants and will help ensure user acceptance and affordability.
In addition, the project reviewed existing studies and conducted a survey to gain a better understanding of the factors influencing EV user acceptance. A wide range of factors were considered, based on demographic, situational, contextual, and psychological aspects, such as current regulations and legislations, societal norms and cultural values, financial factors, and vehicle specifications, among others. This research showed that affordability is the most important aspect for both commercial and private users. Among the top priorities for commercial users are lower operational costs and enhanced charging infrastructure accessibility, while for private users, the most significant factors influencing EV acceptance are the charging infrastructure, range, cost, and operational benefits. By focusing on improving charging time, range, and vehicle safety, ZEV-UP aims to improve user acceptance and accelerate the transition to electric mobility.
The project also studied the environmental and economic impacts of BEVs. Using a Life Cycle Assessment comparing different cars, the project found that despite higher initial costs and the environmental impact of battery production, BEVs have a lower impact on global warming and lower operating costs in the long run. ZEV-UP is further enhancing these benefits through the development of new battery technologies including modular battery packs within a swappable battery system and second usage of batteries.
Additionally, the project looked at different business models and how they influence the purchase of an electric vehicle. This highlighted the potential of innovative business models, such as subscription services and Battery as a Service (BaaS), to offset the high upfront costs and depreciation risks associated with BEVs. These models offer greater flexibility and affordability, making them particularly relevant for the ZEV-UP vehicle, which will feature swappable batteries.
While long recharge times, high purchase costs, and perceived risks remain barriers to EV adoption, ZEV-UP focuses on addressing these barriers through targeted solutions, such as reduced charging times and proposing a cost-effective and practical car. The ZEV-UP vehicle will feature a swappable battery system, solar panel charging, locally produced spare parts, and lightweight and sustainable materials, which are designed to foster a positive attitude towards ultra-compact vehicles and accelerate the transition to sustainable urban mobility.
“ZEV-UP puts user preferences at the core of its innovation, aiming to boost EV adoption by addressing critical factors like frugality, affordability, charging infrastructure, battery swappability, and operational efficiency. Based on evidence from the studies and surveys, our research ensures the ZEV-UP vehicle meets real user needs, considering key drivers and barriers, while making sustainable mobility more accessible for both commercial and private users,” says Emin Aliyev, ZEV-UP Project Coordinator and Project Manager at ERTICO.
Stay connected with ZEV-UP to get the latest updates by visiting the project’s website and LinkedIn page.
