State of Play: Sustainable automobility in Europe

Introduction

In conducting research and developing the content for this report RSM has identified 9 critical categories:

• Policy Framework and Regulations; 
• Technological Advancements; 
• Infrastructure development; 
• Market Trends and Consumer Behavior; 
• Public Transportation Systems; 
• Environmental Impact and Emissions; 
• Economic and Social Implications; 
• Best Practices and Case Studies; 
• Future Perspectives and Emerging Trends.

Some categories do not apply to all countries, due to unavailable or insufficient data. 

For the collection process we have relied on European Union sources, strategic documents published by national governments, journal published papers and sector specific reports from industry associations. After the collection process, the information was processed and divided into the most relevant categories for a specific country. 

Based on the research described above, we have employed the Semaphore method (green, yellow and red) to determine the current state of a Member State but also to offer a prediction based on the sustainable development of the automotive and mobility sectors. 

In evaluating the current state and offering a sustainable development prediction, factors such as the existence of a national long-term strategy, existing EV infrastructure, tax benefits and subsidy availability for buyers of emission-free vehicles, the current state of public transportation, railway electrification, and investment in battery manufacturing plants were used.

Summary

Croatia's commitment to sustainable urban mobility is reflected in its extensive Recovery and Resilience Plan, which includes substantial funding towards modernizing the railway infrastructure, deploying autonomous electric taxis, and expanding the network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The plan aims to introduce zero-emission vehicles and vessels as part of a broader effort to reduce environmental impact and promote digital innovation. 

Croatia offers attractive tax benefits and subsidies for electric vehicles, with the government eliminating excise duties and special environmental taxes for EVs. Additionally, annual incentives are available for purchasing both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), supported by the European Investment Bank (EIB) to aid sustainable transport initiatives. Technological advancements in Croatia include initiatives for Smart Cities and the development of EV charging infrastructure. The country is actively seeking investors to bolster its automotive industry, focusing on smart city development, public infrastructure, and increasing the number of bike paths. Infrastructure development emphasizes modernizing the railway network, with substantial investments to enhance connectivity and safety. 

Cycling infrastructure is being expanded, including projects to build additional bicycle roads alongside major roads. Market trends indicate a lower than EU average number of cars per inhabitant, with a slow growth in the electric vehicle market. Public transportation in Croatia includes buses, trams, and ferries, with a focus on improving efficiency and expanding services. Environmental initiatives aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with a push towards sustainable mobility to address economic challenges and social inequalities in rural areas. 

Best practices include engaging citizens in the mobility dialogue and investing in R&D innovations. Future perspectives suggest Croatia's sustainable mobility industry depends on financial resources for technological innovations, with recommendations for increased national funding for R&D and investments in Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) to improve connectivity in rural areas. International collaborations, such as involvement in the Rail Baltica project, showcase Croatia's commitment to enhancing rail connectivity and fostering sustainable transportation throughout the region.