Tag Archive: Light electric vehicles

  1. German research shows that sodium-ion batteries require different safety mechanisms

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    Source: Electrive, Journal of Power Sources Advances

    Image credit: Fraunhofer EMI

    Researchers in Germany have conducted tests comparing the behaviour of sodium-ion batteries to lithium-ion batteries under certain conditions, discovering that safety mechanism design is not a one-size-fits-all scenario.

    The research was jointly conducted by the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung, BAM), the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) and the Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics (EMI). The research was undertaken to investigate the viability of sodium-ion batteries as an alternative to more tried-and-tested lithium-ion systems, as there is potential for savings in resources and costs, and sodium-ion cell chemistry is considered to be relatively safe.

    The researchers noted that, to compete with lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) need to be built with increased energy density. This in turn entails new requirements regarding battery safety, which need to be evaluated through rigorous battery abuse testing, aiming to deliberately initiate a thermal runaway event.

    The testing process

    Three types of batteries were tested, all cylindrical cells in the 18650 format.:

    • NFM cells (sodium-ion cells with nickel, iron and manganese)
    • LFP (lithium iron phosphate)
    • NMC532 (lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide)

    BAM wanted to explore the behaviour of the SIBs in comparison to the more familiar LIBs types, and to examine if the built-in safety mechanisms are equally effective. Mechanical damage to the battery cells was simulated using a nail penetration test, where the cell is pierced to “trigger a critical damage event.” This normally leads to an internal short circuit, which, combined with the mechanical damage, can lead to thermal runaway.

    High-speed X-ray imaging technology developed by Fraunhofer EMI was used by ESRF researchers to visualise the internal results of this critical damage event.

    The results

    The tests on the familiar LIBs went as expected, with BAM stating: “The lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery proved to be particularly stable. The lithium-ion battery with a nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC532) cathode reacted in a controlled manner – its safety mechanisms worked as intended.”

    The researchers were surprised by the behaviour of the SIB, however, with the test leading to “an almost explosive reaction.”

    The use of the high-speed X-ray images enabled the researchers to determine that the cause of this behaviour was not due to the SIB’s cell chemistry, but instead the structure of the cell itself – specifically, a “failure of the cell’s venting system.”

    The cells’ venting systems are designed to ensure that excess pressure, in the event of an internal thermal reaction, is reduced by targeted venting. BAM noted that, “however, due to the rapid increase in pressure, the venting system was blocked by other components of the safety equipment, which led to the abrupt and violent reaction.”

    Nils Böttcher, head of the BAM battery testing centre, expanded: “Our investigations show that safety mechanisms cannot simply be transferred from one battery technology to another. Especially with new battery types such as sodium-ion cells, mechanical components such as venting systems must be specifically adapted and tested. Our findings do not call into question the fundamental safety of sodium-ion technology, but they do underscore the need to consider chemical composition and safety design together.”

    As a result, BAM is actively involved in the development of standards and norms in the field of sodium-ion battery safety.

    The research was published in issue 36 of the Journal of Power Sources Advances, where video recordings of the X-ray imaging of the tests can be viewed, revealing the internal behaviour of all three tested battery types.

  2. EVpro delivers Stuyf Pickups to Belgian municipalities

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    Sources: EVpro, Mobilitum

    LEVA-EU member EVpro has delivered new Stuyf Pickup units to the City of Bruges and the Municipality of Soignies in Belgium, enabling the local authorities to manage municipal tasks such as park maintenance in a sustainable, quiet, emission-free way.

    The City of Bruges has doubled its fleet of Stuyf Pickups, adding 9 to make a total of 18.

    EVpro first provided the Municipality of Soignies with electric tricycles in 2018. Seven years later, their replacements, three new Stuyf Pickups, will continue the good work.

    The Stuyf Pickup comes in two varieties – the CE Pickup, and the L6 Pickup. They allow for regular municipal maintenance tasks such as litter collection or park and garden maintenance, while maintaining the integrity of cities’ car-free zones.

  3. Cleantron deploys laser-welding to enhance lithium-ion battery production

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    Source: Cleantron

    LEVA-EU member Cleantron, a specialist producer of li-ion battery modules based in the Netherlands, has installed cutting-edge Trumpf laser-welding technology into its production line, allowing for increased output with enhanced product quality and reduced environmental impact.

    Cleantron’s product design features a fused welding technology, giving every welded cell its own fuse, and so offering intrinsic battery safety. Laser welding is the key to enabling this safety feature.

    Precision laser welding for multiple battery pack types

    The equipment is described by Cleantron as a key production enabler, performing laser welding with high accuracy, speed and reliability across a wide range of battery cells. From swappable lithium batteries for LEVs to li-ion battery packs for industrial equipment, the machine ensures consistent results.

    The system allows for rapid production changeovers and minimal downtime, enabling Cleantron to quickly shift between lithium ion battery 48v, 36V e-bike battery, and lithium ion battery 48v modules, and from low voltage to high voltage battery configurations.

    Durable welds and smart BMS integration

    Cleantron is able to ensure reliable connections within its lithium-ion battery products thanks to the Trumpf technology. The production line enables smart welding and built-in vision systems for high-quality joins, minimal defects, and full traceability.

    Combined with Cleantron’s proprietary battery management systems (BMS), the precision of laser welding directly supports safer, longer-lasting, and smarter battery solutions designed to perform in demanding environments.

    Efficient, environmentally friendly production

    Cleantron highlights that the Trumpf technology allows them to reduce waste and the need for reworking, and boost production capacity, enabling enhanced consistency of product quality at both small and large production quantities.

    With a wide range of lithium-ion battery products including those suited to the e-bike and light electric vehicle sectors, they provide reliable power solutions to European brands with minimal shipping miles, further boosting the sustainability of Europe-made products.

  4. Acciona announces new charging infrastructure in Madrid, Spain

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    Source: Acciona

    The LEVA-EU member’s latest infrastructure implementation marks a milestone in making electric mobility more accessible in the Spanish capital, with the inclusion of a station for exchanging removable batteries in trolley format for its vehicles, which include microcars and electric motorcycles operating under the brand name Silence.

    A new municipal electric vehicle charging station powered entirely by certified renewable energy has been inaugurated in the Madrid district of Vicálvaro. The project, developed under a municipal concession by ACCIONA Energía in collaboration with the Madrid City Council, was formally presented at an event attended by Borja Carabante, the City Council’s delegate for Urban Planning, Environment and Mobility.

    The facility offers 32 charging points available to the public 24 hours a day, year-round. It is designed to accommodate a wide range of vehicle types including electric motorcycles. It also offers a dedicated battery-exchange station for Acciona’s Silence electric vehicles equipped with swappable batteries, from electric motorcycles to four-wheeled vehicles, categorised as L6 (45 km/h) or as L7 (micro-car) vehicles.

    With 3,000 kW of installed capacity, the hub operates exclusively on renewable energy. ACCIONA Energía has also installed solar canopies totaling 150.42 kWp, capable of generating nearly 200,000 kWh annually and avoiding more than 54 metric tons of CO₂ emissions each year. The photovoltaic system contributes directly to vehicle charging and ensures the energy self-sufficiency of the on-site service building, which includes a rest area with vending machines and restrooms for users.

    The complex features a modular architectural design that incorporates a pergola made from recyclable wood for shade and weather protection, as well as urban furniture produced through 3D printing.

    A future expansion of the station is planned for 2028. The upgrade will add 24 additional charging points, bringing the total to 56 and positioning Vicálvaro as one of Madrid’s largest and most adaptable public electric vehicle charging hubs. The initiative supports the city’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan and the Madrid 360 environmental strategy.

  5. SME Market Expansion Open Call 2026 includes LEV-sector relevance

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    Source: EIT Urban Mobility

    EIT Urban Mobility’s fourth edition of its SME Market Expansion Open Call will focus on five topics, including health and mobility, urban logistics, and electrification of transport and alternative fuels. Applications for the Call, a program designed to support SME business growth and market expansion, will be accepted until December 1, 2025.

    The SME Market Expansion Open Call promotes SMEs to grow and expand their markets by supporting the replication and scaling of successful solutions within new sectors or regions. The opportunity facilitates a strategic platform for SMEs, enabling them to bring their ambitions to scale, such as opening subsidiaries or expanding into new markets.

    The Call aims to accelerate the market adoption of innovations by reducing development and deployment risks, with a clear path to market, by enabling cities and businesses to procure and scale those innovations. By collaborating with an end-client, SMEs can validate their innovations in a real-life setting as they gain visibility and credibility in Europe.

    Who can apply?

    Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that supported by an end client, a public or private entity, and which are committed to testing and demonstrating their solution.

    Please note: SMEs that were selected and funded for the previous EIT Urban Mobility SME Market Expansion Open Call (2025) are not eligible to ensure a balanced project portfolio.

    The Call focuses on the following five topics:

    • Health and mobility
    • Urban Logistics
    • Electrification of transport and alternative fuels
    • Mobility data management
    • Public Transport

    EIT funding allocation

    The total estimated funding allocated to the SME Market Expansion Call is €600,000.

    Approximately 10 projects will be implemented by 10 different SMEs, with each entity awardee receiving an EIT funding allocation of €60,000.

    For more information about The Call and how to apply, please visit the EIT Urban Mobility SME Market Expansion Call webpage.

  6. Micro may move Microlino production to China

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    Source: Electrive, Microlino

    The LEVA EU member has stated that it is considering moving production of its Microlino outside of Europe, due to a lack of support in the region for light electric vehicles. The Swiss brand has stated that is considering China as a relocation option due to its production incentives.

    Micro’s Ouboter family, who created the Microlino, have invested approximately 70 million Swiss francs (approximately EUR 75 million) into the vehicle’s development and manufacturing to date, producing nearly 4,800 units at their facility in Turin, Italy. However, they have reported feeling disadvantaged in comparison with traditional carmakers, noting that their expectations of support from European authorities have not materialised.

    According to the company, current European regulations pose significant challenges for vehicles classified in the L7e category, which includes its microcar, Microlino. Unlike larger electric cars, L7e vehicles do not qualify for subsidies, CO₂ credits or tax incentives in most European markets. They are, however, subject to import duties. Additional complications arise from inconsistent classifications: in Switzerland, for instance, the Microlino is registered as a small motorbike but treated as a passenger car for import purposes.

    Another inconsistency, is that while light electric vehicles do not qualify for government benefits, bulkier, heavier-weighted electric cars (including SUVs) that take up more space on roads receive support from the government, such as carbon-emission policies and trading schemes, as well as subsidies.

    The founders argue that these regulatory inconsistencies hinder the competitiveness of light electric vehicles and contribute to rising production costs. By contrast, they estimate that manufacturing in China could cut their production expenses by approximately 50%.

    “If Europe doesn’t act, production will no longer take place here in future,” founder Wim Ouboter told Swiss media, highlighting that China offers government subsidies and substantially lower manufacturing costs that could make relocation appealing.

    Earlier this year, India was also explored as a potential production base, though China’s financial incentives appear to be more advantageous. The consideration of a move comes shortly after the company unveiled a new variant of its compact electric model at the Brussels Motor Show.

  7. LEVA-EU Statement on the Future of Eurobike

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    LEVA-EU does not wish to comment on the individual decisions of ZIV, Zukunft Fahrrad, Bosch, or other companies that have chosen not to participate in Eurobike. What matters is the broader question of how the light mobility sector chooses to engage with a rapidly evolving landscape.

    Eurobike remains the only truly international trade show in Europe that brings together companies and visitors from around the world. There is continued value in maintaining such a platform, and Eurobike has fulfilled this role effectively for many years. While improvement is always possible, there is no reason to dismiss the platform outright. Its relevance can and should be strengthened by ensuring it fully reflects the wider world of light mobility, including emerging developments, challenges, and opportunities.

    At the same time, concerns within the sector should not be ignored. The steadily rising cost of participation has become a barrier for many companies, particularly smaller and innovative ones that are essential to the future of light mobility. The relocation from the more intimate and compact setting in Friedrichshafen to the much larger and more impersonal Messe Frankfurt has likewise had clear consequences. Because the distances between halls and meeting locations are much greater, exhibitors and visitors now spend significantly more time walking from one appointment to the next. This reduces the total number of meetings they can realistically conduct and limits the spontaneous interactions that once characterised Eurobike. These developments raise the question of whether the aspiration for ever-increasing economic scale should be reconsidered in favour of qualitative growth, with greater emphasis on relevance, accessibility, and meaningful exchange.

    LEVA-EU represents the Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) sector rather than the bicycle industry alone. Electrically assisted cycles are one important segment, but LEVs extend far beyond bicycles. Our mission is to advance sustainable mobility by promoting the broader adoption of LEVs. The form these vehicles take is secondary to their contribution to reducing reliance on heavy, resource-intensive transport. This transition cannot be driven by bicycles alone.

    For that reason, Eurobike should continue its evolution beyond a purely bicycle-focused event and embrace the wider LEV sector. There is no valid argument for excluding LEVs; on the contrary, the bicycle and LEV industries can reinforce each other and stimulate innovation. A broader focus on mobility solutions could also attract new groups of professional visitors. Cities and local authorities, logistics and delivery companies, fleet operators, public transport providers, real estate developers, last-mile delivery specialists, and corporate mobility managers all have growing interest in light electric mobility. Their involvement would expand the show’s reach and enhance its relevance across the wider mobility ecosystem.

    The development of heavy-duty cargo bikes illustrates the importance of this shift. These vehicles require specialised components not yet available from traditional bicycle suppliers. Highlighting such emerging needs would help Eurobike attract new participants and strengthen its role as a forward-looking platform.

    LEVA-EU will continue to attend Eurobike, as it remains the only European event offering a comprehensive opportunity to meet and engage with a broad international audience. Our members will make their own decisions based on their individual business needs.

    The situation surrounding Eurobike reflects a wider challenge within the bicycle industry. Parts of the sector appear to be struggling to adapt to a changing mobility environment, particularly in the current economic climate. There is a perception that the market is contracting and that more participants must now compete for smaller shares.

    LEVA-EU does not share this view. We are convinced that the market can grow substantially if the industry focuses on advancing light, sustainable mobility. Both bicycles and LEVs have significant potential to support individuals and businesses in shifting toward cleaner transport.

    Rather than withdrawing, the sector should concentrate on realising this potential. Eurobike provides a valuable platform to support that effort. It should not be abandoned, but further developed in a way that prioritises quality, inclusiveness, and future-oriented mobility solutions.

  8. SUFA aims to decarbonise urban freight in the UK

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    Source: Zag Daily

    Cities around the world are increasingly plagued by traffic congestion and air pollution caused by traditional urban freight systems. As the need to rethink logistics grows urgent, a new UK-based organisation has emerged: the Sustainable Urban Freight Association, has been established to challenge outdated logistics systems, showcase the commercial viability of green delivery, and advocate for decarbonised freight solutions nationwide.

    Why SUFA was founded

    The freight industry has long depended on polluting diesel fleets. While alternatives like electric vans and e-cargo bikes exist, their wider adoption has been held back by policy gaps, lack of visibility, and fragmented efforts.

    SUFA brings together 18 founding members—from local operators like Delivery Mates to global names like DHL—to build a united front. Their goal is to share knowledge, raise the industry’s collective voice, and embed sustainability at the core of urban logistics.

    Funding comes from Impact on Urban Health, a London-based nonprofit. Portfolio Manager Amandeep Kellay explains the need for SUFA:

    “Freight is the backbone of our economy. But our systems of freight are broken and in urgent need of modernisation, in urban areas, air pollution disproportionately affects groups including racialised communities, people in lower income areas and children. We believe SUFA’s work to modernise freight will make our towns and cities safer and healthier places to live, work, and grow.”

    Strategic support will be provided by Purpose Union, with Associate Director Tom Hunt noting SUFA’s mission is to promote clean, reliable freight systems that integrate seamlessly into urban life.

    Giving sustainable freight a voice in policy

    Kevin Savage, COO of Delivery Mates, sees SUFA as a powerful way to push sustainable logistics into the mainstream:

    “Large organisations with large infrastructure are not catching up at the speed that they should be. In comparison, there’s a lot of small and medium sized operators out there that have learned how to cleanly deliver in cities right across the UK, not just in London.”

    While smaller firms were forced to evolve quickly under ULEZ and Clean Air Zones, they often lack representation in national policymaking.

    “Delivery Mates doesn’t have much of a seat at the table with the Department for Transport because we’re a smaller operator. But DHL does, and so do the other larger operators. By joining together as part of SUFA, we’ll have a louder voice at the policy table when it comes to lobbying for sustainable logistics.” says Savage.

    Collaboration over competition

    SUFA brings together companies of all sizes, with the diversity fostering cross-learning and mutual growth.

    Savage explains, “Smaller operators can take the best practices from these larger players to scale, whilst larger companies can go even further by learning directly from long-standing zero emission operators”.

    Collaboration could also lower barriers with insurers, where understanding of cargo bike operations remains limited.

    “Cargo bikes and cycling is not very understood by insurers and underwriters. Together, we can make a better representation to underwriters than we could individually.” adds Savage.

    Sustainability and profitability: Not a trade-off

    One of SUFA’s key goals is to prove that green logistics is commercially viable. SUFA member Delivery Mates delivered nearly 3 million parcels in 2024, increasing volume by 36% while cutting total mileage by 45%—optimising routes and reducing costs.

    “We want to change the narrative around sustainable urban deliveries, proving that it’s a model that can be both commercially and environmentally sustainable.” concludes Savage.

    Looking ahead: SUFA’s next steps

    In its first year, SUFA is free to join, and the organisation is already working with policymakers on policy reforms, with efforts including:

    • Proposals to pedestrianise Oxford Street in London
    • Contributions to Transport for London’s Sustainable Freight Strategy
    • Engagement around insurance reform and congestion charge exemptions for EVs

    “Our aims for the first year are small but mighty, we want to deliver quick policy wins, such as making sure the impending congestion charge on EVs in London doesn’t reverse progress on decarbonising transport.” says Hunt.

    Looking further ahead, SUFA may introduce a subscription model, but its immediate focus is on action, inclusion, and visibility, giving many clean freight operators the platform they’ve long lacked.

    As cities increasingly call for faster, cleaner, and more responsible delivery solutions, SUFA has the potential to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of freight transport by driving progress toward a more sustainable and efficient urban logistics system.

  9. New research reveals e-cargo bikes are effective in replacing family car

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    Source: Cycling Electric

    E-cargo bikes are increasingly being recognised as a practical alternative to cars for everyday family transport, according to new research from the UK and Canada. The findings indicate that when e-cargo bikes are more financially accessible and culturally familiar, families are more likely to adopt them, resulting in a measurable reduction in short car trips for school runs, errands, and local commuting.

    In the UK, a recent trial found that when families were given access to e-cargo bikes, many started using them in place of their cars – particularly for short, routine trips. Meanwhile, a study from the University of British Columbia in Canada found that rebates helped households reduce driving and increase cycling significantly. Together, the findings suggest that by making family cycling more normal and affordable, people will cycle more and drive less.

    UK trial shows shift in family travel habits

    The UK research, published in academic publication Geoforum, included 108 interviews with 49 households. Participants used the e-cargo bikes for a month for school drop-offs, supermarket runs and multi-stop errands – replacing trips previously thought to be car-only.

    The families that participated described the experience as a blend of car-like convenience with the sociability and neighbourhood connection of cycling. This shift in perspective, researchers say, represents a new form of “e-cargo bike citizenship” – where utility cycling becomes a normal, desirable part of daily life.

    For many, initial anxieties about safety, infrastructure, or looking different faded with use. Over time, the practicality of e-cargo bikes outweighed concerns, especially when combined with the convenience of avoiding parking issues, combining errands, and discovering more local routes.

    Canadian study on rebate effects

    Meanwhile, with affordability being frequently reported as a barrier for e-bikes, the University of British Columbia in Canada conducted an evaluation of British Columbia’s 2023–24 e-bike rebate programme by tracking over 1,000 participants after three months and twelve months. The results revealed that:

    • Car use dropped by around 20%
    • Weekly e-bike use increased by 40 km
    • Car mileage dropped by 17 km
    • CO2 emissions fell by 17–22%
    • Travel costs reduced by almost 12%

    The programme saw the highest uptake among lower-income households, underlining the impact of targeted support. In short, the study indicates that lowering the cost of access can directly accelerate behavioural change, a finding that echoes the UK trial, which focused on cultural acceptance through experience.

    Increasing e-cargo bike use

    Professor Charlotte Deane, Executive Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), stated that the market is increasingly offering a wider range of e-cargo bike models designed to enhance practicality and accessibility for families. This, she believes, is enabling more households to replace short car trips with cycling, delivering benefits in terms of inclusion, reduced emissions, and lower congestion—while also encouraging more women and children to adopt cycling as part of their daily lives.

    Professor Ian Philips, lead researcher on the UK trial, added that the ELEVATE team is analysing who benefits from e-cargo bikes, and under what conditions, with this type of granular data being useful for councils and transport planners trying to shift short-trip habits.

    Encouraging usage through cost and culture

    When placed side-by-side, the UK and Canadian findings indicate how e-cargo bike usage can be increased:

    • Cultural shift through lived experience (e.g. loan schemes through schools or employers)
    • Affordability through targeted support (e.g. rebates, vouchers, or finance)

    With many daily journeys such as school runs and local trips being short, shifting even a small portion of shorter distance trips to e-bikes can help to free up road space, reduce emissions, and make streets safer.

    What’s needed next

    To build on this momentum, researchers and advocates point to three clear priorities to make e-cargo bike accessibility easier and more affordable:

    • Safe, connected cycling routes, especially to schools and town centres
    • Secure parking for cargo bikes at key destinations
    • Time-limited, try-before-you-buy schemes, supported by inclusive finance options