Shift2Zero Project

Funded by the European Union's Horizon Europe program, this collaborative endeavor brings together research institutions, industry leaders, and public authorities from across Europe to address pressing environmental challenges in the urban delivery sector. The project emphasizes technological advancement, policy development, and stakeholder engagement to create sustainable urban mobility ecosystems.

The main objective is to accelerate the transition towards zero-emission urban logistics through the development and adoption of electric Light Commercial Vehicles (e-LCVs) better adapted to the specific needs of urban logistics operations and climate goals. By focusing on tailored vehicle solutions, Shift2Zero addresses the unique challenges of last-mile delivery while supporting the EU's ambitious carbon neutrality targets.

Applus+ IDIADA's Contribution: Design and Performance Development of the ALKè ATX4 Vehicle

Innovation in Safety and Sustainability 

• Project Context 

The ALKè ATX4 vehicle has undergone a continuous improvement process, previously achieving a significant milestone by obtaining favorable results performing Euro NCAP heavy quadricycle protocol evaluation during the European project URBANIZED. This structural safety achievement drives us to continue developing innovations that substantially enhance the vehicle's design and performance. 

• Pedestrian and Structural Safety Objectives 

Our new project focuses on two primary development areas: pedestrian safety and passive safety for lateral crash. In terms of pedestrian safety, we propose a comprehensive redesign of the hood and bumpers. This work aims to modify the vehicle's exterior style, optimizing the front impact zone to significantly reduce the risk of injuries in the event of a pedestrian collision. 

• Innovation in Materials and Interior Design 

In the realm of passive safety, we will design an interior door trim. We will utilize bioplastics with auxetic structures, to be manufactured through 3D printing. This innovative approach allows us to achieve multiple objectives: weight reduction, improved impact absorption, and a substantial increase in the vehicle's sustainability. 

• Validation and Homologation Methodology 

A critical component of our project is the rigorous evaluation of safety aspects. We will conduct exhaustive simulations focused specifically on the redesigned hood. Simultaneously, we will work to align all project outcomes with homologation requirements, ensuring the vehicle complies with all necessary regulations for public road use. 

• Innovative Technologies and Approaches 

The development methodology incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as 3D printing, bio-derived materials, and auxetic structures. These elements will enable us to optimize the design from multiple perspectives: weight reduction, energy absorption improvement, sustainability enhancement, and safety performance optimization. 

• Expected Benefits and Strategic Vision 

The project aims to generate tangible benefits: a significant improvement in pedestrian safety, vehicle weight reduction, and utilization of more sustainable materials. Our vision goes beyond a simple redesign: we seek to lay the foundations for a new generation of safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly vehicles. 

• Upcoming Stages 

The next steps will include detailed component design, advanced modeling and simulation, 3D printing prototyping, rigorous safety simulations, and a continuous evaluation and adjustment process. Each phase will be meticulously planned to ensure maximum quality and innovation.