ARIA

ARIA addresses the need for improved energy management in urban mobility. Existing solutions do not fully optimise energy use and reduce emissions effectively. This solution integrates artificial intelligence (AI) with e-mobility, focusing on car-sharing operators and charging points, to create an innovative energy flexibility platform. This platform will optimise charging schedules, support peak shaving, and enhance self-consumption of solar energy. By piloting in Brussels, Venlo, and Barcelona, the solution will be validated in real-world conditions, expecting significant reductions in emissions and improved energy efficiency in the short, medium, and long term.

The ARIA project has several key objectives aimed at advancing sustainable and efficient urban logistics. One primary goal is to decarbonise last-mile logistics by reducing the environmental impact within low emission zones (LEZ) through the adoption of electric light commercial vehicles (eLCVs). Another focus is enhancing energy flexibility by utilising the charging flexibility of eLCVs to improve microgrid stability and efficiency, as well as optimising charging through new energy management systems such as bidirectional charging. The project also aims to promote the adoption of e-mobility by showcasing the economic and operational advantages of eLCVs, thereby encouraging their use for last-mile logistics. Additionally, ARIA seeks to monetize flexibility benefits by creating a business model for eLCV car sharing within LEZs. Finally, the project emphasises the importance of involving local businesses, city planners, and citizens in co-developing and deploying solutions. This participatory approach ensures that the solutions address local needs effectively and gain broad acceptance, with pilot cities actively participating as project partners.