Extensive work has been done on the use case menu card, as it still has a preliminary status due to many internal and external dependencies not in hands of control within the project environment. 4 initiatives have started to counter these dependencies, being a Working group energy infrastructure (ALI/VUB), a Working group road permits (IDI/CEDR), a Working group orchestration (PTV/VUB), and a Working group data and vehicles (VUB/TNO/RIC). A template is developed by FHG and AVL to define the optimized multi powertrain for not only the ZEFES demonstrators but also to collect data used within the simulation tool. Three tools have been developed and are available for the consortium members, the Multi-architecture Simulation Platform and the Total Cost of Ownership tool. A co-design optimization tool has been developed for internal use. A control interface between tractor and e-trailer has been developed, being Interoperable between OEMs and Compatible with existing interfaces. The ZEFES project is proud to be able to demonstrate Q4 2024 an integrated operation of distributed partners’ individual tools/functions/simulation assets under a connected digital framework, with real-world asset data collection, and implemented with customisable ‘lock-and-key’ user access control. Extensive discussions and workshops have resulted in a workable exchange of data between competitive partners beyond the project. Achievements made are the specification of the (BEV) powertrains and planning of vehicle production and commissioning, the decision of cancelling the b-trailer concept and replacing it by a 2nd e-trailer. The e-trailer is seen as an important vehicle unit in extending the vehicle range, optimising the vehicle road behaviour (safety) and zero emission body functions (e.g. reefer). The BE trucks and tractors production will be as late as possible in alignment with time plan for demos. As main innovation outputs, 6 BE trucks/tractors, 2 e-trailers, e-dolly are specified and in production. The precise design verification and close to real-world performance evaluation of the FCEV demonstrators has been done. For each demonstrator (1 VOL-FCEV, 1 SCA-FCEV, 1 FRD-FCEV) one or more use-cases are simulated to prove feasibility of the demonstration. The ramp up phase of time planning of commissioning of the vehicles have been done. Preparation of the demonstrations is on track. The 4 initiatives result in creation of valuable collaboration with stakeholders on road permits and energy infrastructure. The project is facing serious challenges regarding railroad, road permits in line with the revised W&D directive. In addition DSOs and CPOs show lack of awareness and willingness to collaborate, missing a strategy for powerlines and connections to cooperate in the transition process towards zero emission (freight) transport. It was decided is to reach out to high level decision makers hopefully willing to use their political influence getting charging- and hrs location ready on time. The description of the assessment framework and agreements on data gathering from the baseline/reference tests is done. The specified requirements & KPI are defined as well as the Mapped Innovations on Use Cases. The collection of reference data has started.The stakeholders’ interest in the project is very high and growing every day. A worldwide interest shows the importance of this project and the engagement of stakeholder sharing the same concerns, needs & requirements and willingness to bring ZE HDV on the road. The ZEFES Stakeholders’ Group counts already 47 members. 1 successful Symposium has been organised by IDIADA (Santa Oliva Oct 2023) and the 2nd one will take place at VOLVO (Gothenborg Oct 2024). The 2nd achievement is the coordination of the AEVETO cluster. Agreements have been made on physical meetings on technical topics, e.g. TCO & LCA, Digital Twinning, Charging, and participation in the ZEFES Symposium in Gothenburg, 22/23 Oct 2024. During the 3rd phase of the ZEFES project, the creation of a “white paper” on 2ZERO Partnership and barriers will be a joint effort.
