Synergies of Connectivity, Automation and Electrification of Road Vehicles

The combination of connectivity and automation with the electrification of road vehicles offers a multitude of synergies in both performance of the technical systems and added values for users and businesses. These synergies become manifest in e.g. a higher energy efficiency and a more convenient operation. Furthermore they may define new products and services in the automotive domain. Therefore, they are an interesting subject of innovation analysis. This paper summarizes the activities of an international working group dealing with connectivity, automation, and electrification in road vehicles which was formed under the umbrella of the International Energy Agency (IEA). These activitites include the analysis of potential synergies, an information exchange about relevant research and development activities, and discussions on future trends in innovation, business development and deployment.