Driving the Future: Insights on the Future of Mobility

The transition to sustainable mobility is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. At a recent event focused on mobility innovation, Swiss and Japanese industry experts and researchers gathered to discuss the future of transportation, particularly the role of electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable mobility solutions. Encouraging active exchange, the event explored key trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the sector.

From left to right: Mr. Shimon Goto, Mr. Hidetoshi Cho, Ms. Minami Kotani, Prof. Thomas Sauter-Servaes, Dr. Felix Moesner

While many industries have made significant strides in reducing their environmental impact over the past 30 years, the transport sector remains a major contributor to emissions. Switzerland has seen a 19% increase in emissions since 1990, while Europe has experienced an even steeper 30% rise. The transport sector now accounts for nearly 45% of total emissions, making it Switzerland’s leading contributor to climate impact. Notably, 97% of land transport emissions come from road traffic, with passenger cars responsible for 72% of these emissions.

Understanding the Transportation Challenge

Despite the increasing availability of alternative transport options, car ownership remains deeply ingrained in Swiss society. Prof. Thomas Sauter-Servaes highlighted the reasons behind the private car’s enduring popularity:

  • It reduces complexity in daily transportation needs.
  • It serves as a rolling storage unit and even a temporary living space.
  • It enables seamless travel between multiple destinations while maintaining privacy.

Rather than declining, car ownership in Switzerland continues to rise, and vehicles are getting larger, further complicating efforts to reduce emissions.

Innovative Approaches: EMOBI’s Vision for Micro-Mobility

Founded in 2020, EMOBI is developing sustainable, hardware-centric solutions to transform mobility through off-grid systems. Their strategy focuses on creating self-sufficient micro-mobility zones powered by renewable energy. The company has already deployed 100 vehicles across Japan, with a focus on the Shonan and Okinawa regions. Strategic partnerships with Japan Railways East and All Nippon Airways have enabled the placement of EMOBI’s vehicles at train stations, airports, and hotels. By 2026, EMOBI aims to expand its fleet to 1,000 vehicles, contributing to a more integrated and sustainable urban transport ecosystem.

EV Motor Japan: Pioneering Commercial EV Solutions

Since its founding in 2019, EV Motor Japan has been at the forefront of commercial EV production, specializing in buses and trucks. With offices in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, the company has experienced remarkable growth:

  • Since 2021, they have introduced multiple bus models to the market.
  • Route bus sales surged from just 3 units in 2022 to 160 units in 2024.
  • In 2023, the company recorded sales exceeding 5 billion yen, with 284 units ordered.
  • For 2024, sales projections reach approximately 8 billion yen.

Challenges and Opportunities

  • The panel discussion emphasized the dual necessity of transforming both energy production and mobility. In Japan, where 80% of energy still comes from oil and gas, transitioning to electric mobility requires parallel advancements in sustainable energy infrastructure.

 

  • Challenges such as the environmental impact of battery production and the Japanese auto industry’s preference for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) were also examined. While EVs are essential for reducing fossil fuel dependence, the CO2 footprint of battery manufacturing remains a significant hurdle that must be addressed.

Moving Toward a Sustainable Future

Innovation in micro-mobility and commercial EVs is gaining momentum. However, overcoming systemic challenges—such as energy production methods and battery sustainability—will require ongoing commitment and cross-sector cooperation. The discussions highlighted both the complexities and the opportunities of this transformation, reinforcing the importance of sustainable mobility in shaping our future.

Partners

  • Swissnex
  • ZHAW