EFFEREST targets a decisive leap forward in the novel use of data to achieve energy efficient electric vehicle (EV) designs, matching enhanced user acceptance with efficient vehicle operation. Significant improvements will be gained by leveraging knowledge from real fleet behaviour. Users will benefit from personalised data and the always-available option to select the vehicle performance type; in this way, users will perceive that individualised eco-functionality sufficiently fulfils normal daily-use requirements and will be motivated to save energy even over longer periods of regular usage. To achieve its ambition, EFFEREST brings together 11 partners from industrial and research backgrounds covering the entire EV value chain. A co-design framework will be implemented with a holistic user-centric energy management system control architecture based on adaptive digital twins, model-based optimization for component rightsizing, predictive model-based control and AI, benefitting from V2X, fleet-generated information and historical data. Most importantly, novel indicators will be identified that provide deeper insight into the effect that technical improvements have on user experience: this will help to derive more realistic development targets with a direct impact on user attractiveness, which in turn will impact the controllers that will be tailored adaptively to the current condition of the specific EV and its usage pattern, thus providing personalized and robust behaviour. Innovations in powertrains, battery systems, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems will then be demonstrated through extensive evaluations in test facilities and a demonstrator vehicle, the aim being to make EVs more energy-efficient, comfortable, safe and affordable. As such, EFFEREST will increase the competitiveness of Europe, strengthening industrial leadership in key digital, enabling and emerging technologies to make EVs more attractive for the worldwide mass market.

As governments and consumers worldwide aim for climate neutrality and sustainable transportation, the demand for more efficient vehicles steadily increases, pushing the voltage of the powertrain to new levels. The HiVEP project is a groundbreaking initiative set to revolutionize electric vehicle (EV) efficiency and performance through advanced high-voltage powertrain technologies. Targeting mass-market C-segment vehicles, HiVEP introduces powertrain architectures operating above 800V, enhancing vehicle performance by integrating ultra-efficient power electronics with advanced SiC semiconductors, Active Winding Reconfiguration, integrated chargers, and rare-earth-free electric machines optimized for high voltages. It also includes high-energy-density batteries with 3.6 C-rate and optimized thermal management. These innovations aim to drastically reduce EV charging times at under 10 minutes —a significant adoption barrier—reducing energy consumption by 25%, boosting range by 20% and enhancing driving dynamics. HiVEP also emphasizes the safety and sustainability of its systems, promoting resource efficiency and a lower lifecycle footprint through reduced material usage and energy consumption. Finally, it strives to maximise the affordability and cost competitivess of the innovations, by reducing future powertrain costs by 10-20% at mass production levels. The project combines the expertise of 12 leading European automotive manufacturers, technology providers, and academic institutions, supported by innovative semiconductor manufacturers and EU platforms EARPA and CLEPA. This collaboration fosters a holistic innovation approach to address technical challenges effectively. HiVEP's ambitious goals aim to significantly cut carbon emissions in the transportation sector, align with global environmental targets, and bolster Europe’s leadership in sustainable automotive technology. Expected outcomes could catalyze further EV innovations, broadening adoption and acceptance.