Abstract
ZEvRA's main objective is to improve the circularity of light-duty EVs throughout their entire value chain, from materials supply and manufacturing to end-of-life (EoL) processes, which aligns with the European Union's goal of achieving zero CO2e emissions by 2035, particularly in the EV value chain. To do so, ZEvRA will develop a Design for Circularity (DfC) methodology and a holistic circularity assessment aimed at improving the production of electric vehicles (EVs) based on the 9Rs. This methodology will be validated by developing zero emission solutions for the most important automotive materials, covering > 84% material mix: steel, three versions of aluminium (wrought, casting, and foam), thermoplastics composites (long and continuous fibre-reinforced), unfiled/short fibre plastics, glass, tyres and Rare Earth Elements (REE). These solutions will be supported by a set of digital tools to support the manufacturing of the use cases, the assessment of circularity, traceability, and the virtual integration of components into a full replicable vehicle. To maximise the outreach of our methodology and zero emission solutions, ZEvRA will develop a dedicated training & upskilling programme for the automotive workforce and academia, together with activities aimed at increasing awareness & acceptability of the proposed zero emission solutions. Lastly, circular business models targeting EoL and logistics aimed at improving the economic feasibility of circularity in EVs are advanced. ZEvRA’s innovations aim to improve zero emission approaches in the life cycle and value chain of at least 59% of European EVs by 2035 through the 5 OEMs and Tier 1’s that are part of the consortium, which includes industry and academia covering the entire automotive value chain.
Project details
Unibo Team Leader: Lorenzo Donati
Unibo involved Department/s:
Dipartimento di Ingegneria Industriale
Coordinator:
Fraunhofer Gesellschaft Zur Forderung Der Angewandten Forschung E.V.(Germany)
Other Participants:
ALMA MATER STUDIORUM - Università di Bologna
(Italy)
Total Eu Contribution: Euro (EUR) 11.997.676,00
Project Duration in months: 36
Start Date:
01/01/2024
End Date:
31/12/2026
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101138034