At LUT, a comprehensive model for electric mobility in heavy-duty transport is currently under development. This model brings together the main factors influencing the adoption of electric commercial vehicles, such as technology, environment, regulation, and economic considerations. More precisely, it is about the holistic modelling of electric transport.
The goal is to formulate meaningful research questions so that the research can support decision-making at the levels of cities, businesses, and consumers.
Electrifying heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks and buses, presents its own unique set of challenges. These include issues related to charging infrastructure, battery capacity, operational efficiency, and lifecycle sustainability.
“A holistic modelling framework provides a structural foundation that helps better understand the complexity of electrifying trucks, buses, and other large vehicles,” explains Marko Torkkeli, professor of technology and business innovations.
The framework brings the entire value chain and network into focus, enabling precise formulation of research questions at different stages of the chain.
“The purpose of these questions is to guide future research, spark dialogue, and ultimately accelerate innovation in heavy-duty e-mobility. The field is developing rapidly, so even small technological details can shift the landscape significantly in a short time.”
The holistic modeling is funded by the Electric Mobility Research Center (EMRC), a joint initiative of LUT and Kempower.
Politics and tax decisions shape the future
Holistic modelling of electric mobility can also be applied in urban planning and transport policy. Evidence-based research provides decision-makers with clear boundaries and tools.
“For example, electricity distribution infrastructure must be built wisely, with a long-term perspective. At its best, holistic models can offer insights for even better transport policy.”
The EU also sets its own boundaries for recycling. Torkkeli points out that a price has been set for CO2 emissions – and it won’t be going down. Taxation and similar measures will continue to influence consumer choices to a certain degree.
According to Torkkeli, the extent to which various stakeholders, such as the automotive industry, energy companies, and cities, make use of modelling results depends heavily on how well they can be integrated into the holistic model and how willing they are to combine and share data.
Patience is key when looking toward the future.
“There are continuous incremental innovations improving the performance of electric mobility. But when it comes to major breakthroughs, prediction is impossible. That’s why those in the field need to keep their antennas up and stay alert to
developments around the world.”
