Mobility
Boosting circular economy in the automotive sector
Politics
Empa
New vehicles are responsible for around ten percent of plastic demand in the EU, and the automotive sector is the number one consumer of raw materials like aluminum, magnesium, platinum group metals, and rare earth elements. A new set of provisions, proposed by the European Commission last week to revise the EU End-of-Life Vehicles Directive, intends to enhance the circularity of the automotive sector. Empa researchers played a crucial role in defining the content of this new proposal.
Autonomous steering system keeps human drivers engaged
TechTransfer
EPFL
Researchers from EPFL and JTEKT Corporation have developed an automated driving system based on the concept of ‘collaborative steering’, which aims to increase transportation safety, efficiency, and comfort by encouraging active interaction between autonomous vehicles and their human drivers.
Further optimising car brakes
TechTransfer
PSI
Researchers at PSI have joined forces with employees of the technology transfer centre ANAXAM and the industrial partner Audi Sport to shed light on a potential sticking point: they have used neutrons to examine a brake calliper in action and reveal ways of optimising it.
Lightweight, ultra-connected seaborne containers
TechTransfer
EPFL
The composite containers developed by AELER, an EPFL startup, deliver better performance across the board: they’re stronger, have a bigger payload, are better insulated, allow for enhanced tracking and can help cut carbon emissions. More than 60 of the containers are currently crossing oceans around the world, and the firm hopes to grow this number substantially starting next year. 
Less noise and better fuel efficiency during approach
TechTransfer
Empa
The approach and landing of passenger jets is often a burden for people and the environment. The DYNCAT project, in which Empa researchers are working with partners in Switzerland, Germany and France, is aiming at approaches that cause less noise and CO2 emissions – thanks to intelligent assistance systems for the pilots.
"Cushions" against rail noise and vibrations
Research
Empa
To reduce rail noise for residents, noise barriers or quieter wheel systems and brakes are not the only options. An inconspicuous component under the railway tracks is a beacon of hope for quieter rail traffic for a team of researchers with Empa involvement – and first tests on passing trains show a positive effect.
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