The ZEV-UP project has taken an important step forward with the definition of its vehicle architecture. This represents an important step that will guide the prototype building phase of the project. The vehicle architecture outlines the structural design of the ZEV-UP vehicles, including the body, interior and exterior, and provides the foundation for further development and simulations. A key feature of the vehicle architecture is a modular and scalable platform that will enable the production of three vehicle variants: a 2-seater passenger car, a 2-seater commercial vehicle, and a 4-seater passenger car.

To define the vehicle architecture, our partner FEV worked closely with Beemobs, Coşkunöz, Ford Otosan, ASPILSAN, AKKODIS, and Elaphe. Together, they examined the best feasible concept for the ZEV-UP vehicle, balancing market demands, performance, affordability, and safety requirements. Their work involved the integration of powertrain, electrical, and thermal systems; assessments of the viability of structural and crash performance; and the best arrangement and packaging to satisfy space, ergonomic, and usability goals. Along with estimating weight and cost baselines and evaluating effects on assembly and manufacturing, the study also identified prospects for platform sharing and modularisation.

Insights from user studies played also an important role in shaping the vehicle architecture. By including feedback on expectations and needs for urban electric mobility, ZEV-UP aims to ensure that its vehicles are user-friendly and widely accepted, accelerating the transition to zero-emission urban mobility.

The resulting ZEV-UP vehicle architecture will guide the project’s next steps, from design and styling to prototyping, as well as demonstration and validation activities. The mechanical architecture and (powertrain) component choices, which includes the integration of the battery swapping system, will also be developed to meet the vehicle architecture requirements. In addition, prototyping and component’s manufacturing steps, as well as demonstration activities in the later stages of the project will also be based on the vehicle architecture.

Overall, the ZEV-UP vehicle architecture demonstrates the project’s commitment to creating an efficient, adaptable, and sustainable compact vehicle tailored for urban life. The ZEV-UP vehicle architecture includes lightweight construction, optimised use of space, and smart integration of components, resulting in a design that supports both performance and practicality. With its modular design, the vehicle can adapt to different needs, redefining electric urban mobility.

Make sure to follow the ZEV-UP journey and the next steps of the prototype building and stay tuned for the vehicle demonstrations planned for 2026.