E-mobility: electric vehicles and infrastructure

Present situation worldwide and in Switzerland

Complying with the climate targets of the Paris Agreement requires a shift from our current fossil fuel-based transportation system to a sustainable system featuring minimal carbon emissions and primary energy use as well as largely pollutant-free emissions. In Switzerland, transportation is responsible for one third of overall greenhouse gas emissions. When considering only carbon emissions due to heating and motor fuels, this figure rises to 44% (15 million tonnes in 2017). The necessary transition will rely on the development of e-mobility, which aims to answer mobility needs while also meeting imperatives of sustainability through vehicles with electric drive and energy storage. A comprehensive study published by the SCCER Mobility shows that the medium to long-term decarbonisation of mobility can only be achieved through technological developments focussed on powertrain electrification. There are two competing pathways to electrification: battery-electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles powered by hydrogen. The timely development of carbon-free power generation for the mobility sector and of an efficient charging infrastructure will be critical factors. Other global mobility trends include growing urbanisation (megacities), advancing digitalisation (autonomous driving) and changing attitudes (sharing economy).

Implications for Switzerland

In the short and medium term, it will be important to set up the necessary infrastructure for the electrification of mobility. Over the next five years, the number of battery- electric vehicles is projected to increase as a percentage of new vehicles, reaching 10-20% by 2025. A sizeable charging infrastructure will need to be set up: in this context, a key role can be played by the Swiss energy, financial and technology sectors. Throughout Europe, traditional automobile manufacturers are displaying growing interest in developing their own networks of fast charging stations. Legislators should hasten to establish a suitable framework for such activities. The Swiss automotive industry is traditionally a supplier industry. Around two thirds of sales are generated by the supply of parts and materials. Over the long term, the production of parts for internal combustion engines is likely to decrease and give way to e-mobility components, creating opportunities for new market players.