by Nada Welker | Sep 23, 2024 | Alternative Drives, Automotive Industry, Electrification, Hydrogen
We at Magility GmbH are firmly convinced that hydrogen does not represent a viable solution for heavy-duty transport. While some experts, including most recently VDA President Hildegard Müller at the IAA Transportation, still view hydrogen as one of the promising pathways to decarbonizing truck fleets, we, after extensive analysis and practical experience – including multiple calculation scenarios and technology studies for the truck fleets of our logistics sector clients – consider this option inefficient and unrealistic. Instead, we are committed to battery-electric truck solutions (BET solutions), which we see as the practical and future-proof path for energy transformation in heavy-duty transport. As early as 2021, our CEO, Dr. Michael Müller, gave interviews on the challenges of hydrogen technologies, demonstrating Magility GmbH’s in-depth engagement with the topic.
The Challenges of Hydrogen
High Costs – We see cost structures as one of the biggest hurdles for hydrogen in heavy-duty transport.
- Production: The production of green hydrogen, which is essential to meet climate targets, is extremely energy-intensive. Since the electricity required for electrolysis comes from renewable energy sources, the production of hydrogen is significantly more expensive than the direct use of electricity in batteries.
- Infrastructure: Building a comprehensive hydrogen infrastructure, including refueling stations and pipelines, involves immense costs. The investments required to create a functioning supply chain are disproportionate to the already existing charging infrastructure for battery-electric vehicles, which continues to be expanded.
- Vehicle Acquisition: Fuel cell vehicles are currently significantly more expensive to purchase than battery-electric trucks. The high acquisition costs and the complicated technology result in a clear disadvantage compared to the increasingly efficient BET (battery electric truck) solutions.
Low Efficiency – For us, the efficiency of hydrogen technologies remains another obstacle.
- Energy Losses During the conversion of electricity into hydrogen and the subsequent reconversion into electrical energy via fuel cells, a large portion of energy is lost. This means that significantly more electricity is required to generate the same amount of energy than with the direct use of batteries.
- Overall Efficiency Battery-electric trucks have a much higher efficiency due to their direct drive with electricity. This makes them a better choice for the future of heavy-duty transport, both from an ecological and economical perspective.
The Advantages of BET Solutions
At Magility, we focus on the continuous improvement of battery technology as the key to decarbonizing heavy-duty transport. The advantages of BET solutions are clear!
Cost Efficiency
- Decreasing Costs: Due to mass production and technological advancements, battery prices are continuously decreasing. Economies of scale are leading to a significant reduction in costs for both vehicles and infrastructure.
- Fast Charging Times: Fast charging systems are developing rapidly, and charging times for battery-electric trucks are becoming shorter and shorter. This progress increasingly debunks the argument that electric trucks are impractical due to long charging times.
Technological Maturity
- Proven Technology: Batteries have already proven themselves in many areas of mobility, from cars to buses to light commercial vehicles. The technological maturity and continuous development make battery-electric trucks a reliable option for fleet operators.
- Multiple Uses: After their use in vehicles, batteries can be used for stationary energy storage. This extends their lifespan and improves their economic sustainability.
Infrastructure Expansion
- Existing Power Grid: Unlike the complex hydrogen infrastructure, there is already a well-established power grid. The expansion of the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles is progressing rapidly worldwide, and more and more charging stations are becoming available. With intelligent load management and the use of renewable energies, the power grid can be operated in a stable and sustainable manner.
Conclusion: E-Mobility as a Viable Solution
At Magility, we see hydrogen in heavy-duty transport as an inefficient and cost-intensive solution that does not meet the requirements of this sector. The high costs, low efficiency, and underdeveloped infrastructure are barriers that cannot be overcome in the foreseeable future. In contrast, E-solutions offer a mature, efficient, and economically sustainable way to drive the energy transition in heavy-duty transport. With the continuous development of battery technology and the rapid expansion of charging infrastructure, we see battery-electric mobility as the key to decarbonizing heavy-duty transport.
“Hydrogen remains an illusion for us – battery-electric trucks, on the other hand, represent a realistic and achievable future vision.” – Jürgen Schenk, Senior Advisor, Magility GmbH
Our experts are happy to assist you in mastering the energy transformation in the mobility sector successfully. We support you with professional and holistic planning of your procurement scenarios through dynamic cost analyses. For the conversion and optimization of your fleets, we develop customized decision matrices based on typical usage periods, which will efficiently ease your management efforts.
by Nada Welker | Feb 9, 2024 | Electrification, Know-How and inspiration, News from magility, strategy in change, Technologies for new markets
Digitalization and electrification in viticulture not only shape the technologies used but also offer wineries the opportunity to efficiently optimize their soils, terroirs and topographies. These technologies are not just analytical tools, they also enable active participation in the energy transition within the wine industry. Fruitful discussions on this topic took place at the specialist conference of the Wine Campus Neustadt on “Energy Transition in Viticulture – New Concepts for Increased Sustainability“.
Below, we at magility have listed some ways in which digitalization and electrification can support wineries in the process of actively shaping the energy transition.
Soil analysis and optimization
- Digital sensors monitor soil composition to make informed decisions regarding irrigation, soil cultivation and fertilization.
- Optimization based on real-time data improves efficiency and sustainability in viticulture.
Understanding and utilization of terroir
- Satellite data enable monitoring of climate and rainfall in vineyard areas.
- Data analysis supports optimization of cultivation methods and selection of grape varieties according to specific terroir conditions.
Utilization of topography
- GIS systems monitor sunlight exposure and ventilation in vineyard areas.
- Data analysis helps optimize cultivation methods and selection of grape varieties according to topographical conditions.
Optimization of irrigation and energy efficiency
- Sensors monitor grape water requirements to steer irrigation as needed.
- Efficient irrigation not only contributes to optimal grape development but also reduces energy consumption.
Automation of soil cultivation
- Robots automate soil cultivation, contributing to reduced energy consumption.
- Efficient processes through automation optimize resource utilization and increase sustainability.
The integration of digitalization and electrification into viticulture enables precise, sustainable, and energy-saving management. Wineries strategically leveraging these technologies can not only increase their efficiency but also actively contribute to the energy transition while improving their products considering the region-specific conditions. Feel free to contact us here!
by Nada Welker | Feb 8, 2024 | Electrification, Future Trends, Know-How and inspiration, strategy in change, Technologies for new markets
In addition to the climatic conditions and global political developments and the necessary adjustments arising from them, the implementation of digitization and electrification trends is crucial for viticulture at Level 2.
Regional legal frameworks impact viticulture in various ways, from planting regulations to wine processing. In this context, digitization and electrification provide vineyard enterprises with innovative tools to adapt flexibly to regional laws while enhancing their efficiency. Here are some ways in which digital technologies can be utilized.
Energy Management: Controlling Smart Grids
- Digital tools enable efficient energy management by controlling Smart Grids.
- This intelligent energy management helps optimize energy consumption and reduce costs.
Compliance Monitoring
- Digital sensors can be employed to monitor irrigation processes.
- Ensuring compliance with legal requirements regarding irrigation and other cultivation aspects.
Production Efficiency Enhancement
- Digital tools optimize production processes, contributing to increased efficiency.
- Costs can be reduced, and resources can be utilized more effectively.
Development of New Products and Services
- Digital technologies enable the application of innovations, such as the development of new wine varieties.
- Opening up new distribution channels through digital marketing strategies.
By skillfully utilizing digital technologies, vineyard enterprises can improve their adaptability to regional legal frameworks, thereby gaining a competitive advantage. Flexibility to quickly respond to new regulations while integrating innovative approaches in production significantly contributes to the sustainability and competitiveness of the wine industry. Thus, digitization and electrification not only represent tools but also key factors for the future of modern viticulture. Feel free to contact us. We have solutions for you!
by Nada Welker | Jan 19, 2024 | Automotive Industry, Electrification, New Mobility
Electromobility is gaining an increasingly significant role in the “Power Ecosystem,” presenting companies with a multitude of challenges. Simultaneously, it opens up numerous opportunities for innovative solutions and new business models. In this blog article, we will delve into the key aspects of electromobility in the power ecosystem, succinctly summarized.
Challenges of Electromobility in the Power Ecosystem
Ensuring sufficient grid capacity is crucial for reliable charging processes. Companies face the task of investing in technologies that optimize grid capacity and promote the integration of renewable energies.
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Diversity of Plugs and Standards
The variety of plugs and standards poses a challenge. Compatibility of charging stations with different plug types and standards is essential, necessitating standardized solutions.
Fast charging times are a crucial customer need. Companies must choose the right charging speed and technology to meet requirements, with technological innovations playing a vital role.
Strategic site selection for charging stations is critical for success. Companies need to carefully consider factors such as accessibility, traffic density, and parking facilities.
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Costs and Economic Viability
Investing in charging stations is expensive. Companies must conduct economic planning that considers usage and charging prices.
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User-Friendliness and Customer Experience
User-friendly charging stations, simple payment systems, and a positive customer experience are crucial. The integration of apps and reliable systems contributes to customer satisfaction.
Awareness and compliance with regulatory requirements are indispensable. Companies must be aware of and fully comply with local laws and regulations.
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Fleet Charging Infrastructure
Developing an efficient charging infrastructure for fleets requires a holistic strategy. Scalable solutions are needed to meet the demands of fleet operators.
Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid failures. Companies must ensure well-organized maintenance processes and provide reliable support when needed.
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Data Security and Billing
The security of customer data and reliable billing processes are of great importance. Companies should rely on robust security protocols and implement transparent billing procedures.
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Availability of Charging Infrastructure
Providing sufficient charging stations is a challenge. Companies need to develop scalable models to support the growing number of electric vehicles.
Successfully addressing these challenges requires comprehensive strategic planning, technical expertise, and close collaboration with various stakeholders. At magility, we are pleased to assist companies in developing and successfully implementing a comprehensive e-mobility strategy in the power ecosystem. Energy Management and balancing plays a key role in the future.
Electric Vehicles and Fleets as Flexible Energy Sources in the Power Ecosystem
Electric vehicles and fleets not only offer mobility but can also act as flexible energy sources. Through bidirectional charging, also known as Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), they can contribute to grid stabilization.
Challenges in Electric Vehicles and Fleets
- Infrastructure for Charging Stations: See previous section
- Charging Times: Require careful planning and integration into operations.
- Range Anxiety: Concerns about limited range require specific solutions
- Costs: Higher acquisition costs compared to conventional vehicles
- Charging Infrastructure Costs: Investments in charging stations and infrastructure
- Technical Expertise: Transition requires qualified personnel or access to skilled workers
- Fleet Management: Requires specialized software solutions
- Charging Infrastructure Management: Optimal use of infrastructure
- Environmental Impacts: Consideration of ecological aspects
- Brand Impacts: Transition can influence brand imag
- Cybersecurity: Implementation of necessary security measures
- Availability of Government Incentives: Dependent on regional incentive programs
Addressing these challenges requires strategic planning, infrastructure investments, and employee training. At magility, we offer comprehensive consulting services to assist companies in successfully implementing their electric vehicle initiatives.
Bidirectional Charging: Potentials and Challenges in the Electricity Ecosystem
Bidirectional Charging (BDL) or Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) is an innovative technology where electric vehicles not only draw energy from the grid but can also feed energy back into the grid.
Challenges of Bidirectional Charging in the Power Ecosystem
- Technical Complexity: Requires special hardware in vehicles and charging stations
- Battery Lifespan: Controlled charging and discharging are crucial
- Standardization: Uniform standards for interoperability are lacking
- Grid Integration: Requires careful integration into the existing grid
- Security: Robust security protocols and hardware are necessary
- Economic Incentives: Creation of incentives for end consumers and operators
- Regulatory Hurdles: Adjustments in existing regulations are necessary
- Data Security: Protection of user data is a central challenge
Potentials of Bidirectional Charging in the Power Ecosystem
- Grid Stabilization: Contribution to stabilizing the power grid
- Peak Load Management: Reduction of peak loads on the grid
- Renewable Integration: Efficient integration of renewable energies
- Additional Revenue Streams: Income through energy feed-in
- Emergency Power Supply: Use of electric vehicles as emergency power sources
- Sustainability: Increase in the overall sustainability of the energy system
Companies investing in bidirectional charging technology can benefit not only from ecological advantages but also unlock new business opportunities. Our experts at magility and the experts of our partner Hive Power are ready to assist companies in realizing the associated potentials.
Magility, we don’t just drive business ecosystems. We invite you to connect with us for a discussion on the electricity landscape. Stay tuned for more insights in our upcoming blog on the Electricity Ecosystem!
by Nada Welker | Sep 12, 2023 | Uncategorized
Visitor surge at IAA MOBILITY 2023
IAA MOBILITY 2023 witnessed record levels of international participation, with 750 exhibitors from 38 countries, making it a truly global event for exhibitors, speakers, guests, and journalists. The event showcased in excess of 300 world premieres and innovations, underscoring the exhibitors’ exceptional innovation capabilities. More than 500,000 visitors attended the event from September 5th to 10th, with over 100,000 people present at the IAA MOBILITY’s Open Space in the heart of Munich on Saturday alone. International media coverage increased by over 70 percent compared to IAA Mobility 2021, with 3,700 accredited journalists from 82 countries in attendance. This high level of international presence was also reflected in the visitor demographics, with approximately 30 percent of the attendees originating from 109 different foreign countries.
Engagement with Stakeholders, Politics, Society, and Business
The IAA MOBILITY was inaugurated by Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and it featured over 500 high-profile international speakers at the IAA Conference, providing exclusive insights into the future of mobility. This included many leading CEOs from both established mobility and tech companies as well as promising startups. Notable international figures, such as Oscar winner Natalie Portman, Mars mission candidate Alyssa Carson, and climate advocate Sophia Kianni, also took the stage in Munich.
The intensive dialogues and constructive debates with various stakeholders from politics, society, and business at the Open Space and IAA Summit are crucial elements in achieving climate-neutral mobility successfully.
The recent images broadcasted from Munich vividly depict the automotive industry’s unwavering commitment to preserving Germany’s status as the “Land of the Car” while aligning with climate objectives, the welfare of individuals, and economic prosperity. The advanced concept introduced in Munich has demonstrated consistent success this year.
Magility @ IAA Mobility 2023 – Our Perspective on the New IAA Mobility
IAA Mobility 2023 served as a crucial platform for the global automotive industry to showcase its latest technologies and innovations. From the vantage point of an automotive technology consulting firm such as Magility GmbH, the following trends become particularly prominent.
Electromobility
The electrification of automobiles remains the most significant trend in the industry.
The use of electromobility is increasing worldwide due to legal regulations and financial incentives. New emissions regulations in China and Europe, along with government incentives in the USA and Europe, are making electric vehicles more attractive to consumers. Simultaneously, advanced driver-assistance systems are paving the way for semi-autonomous mobility in the near future. The utilization of shared mobility, especially among Generation Z, is expected to rise significantly. The increasingly digital and connected lifestyle of consumers is also driving higher demand for seamless mobility solutions, particularly in the micro-mobility and last-mile transportation sectors. The automotive industry must embrace comprehensive connectivity as the foundation to address this mobility revolution.
IAA Mobility 2023 showcased numerous new electric vehicles, including models from established manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen. Many Chinese OEMs are actively contributing to this trend, offering their electric vehicles at competitive prices. The significance of charging infrastructure for electric mobility was further highlighted during the IAA MOBILITY.
Vehicle batteries are becoming “virtual power plants” within a smart grid. Swiss startup Hive Power demonstrated how smart grid balancing works.
Connectivity
Connectivity is another crucial trend in the automotive industry. The growing importance of connectivity for vehicle manufacturers stems from the fact that cars are becoming increasingly digitalized devices on wheels. Connected vehicles can communicate with other vehicles, infrastructure, and the internet, opening up new opportunities for safety, convenience, and entertainment.
This transformation requires traditional automakers, initially not primarily software companies, to build their expertise and establish partnerships to acquire the necessary skills to manage the complexity of software-defined vehicles. Investments in enabling seamless connected digital experiences are necessary to meet consumer expectations. Simultaneously, automakers must address the challenges of data management and cybersecurity as the volume of data, both within and outside the vehicle, continues to grow.
To better align themselves with connectivity, automakers must strike a balance between the costs of developing mobility services and the potential revenues from digital offerings. They need to accurately assess consumer willingness to pay in different markets and segments and strategically determine where to focus their efforts. Connectivity is crucial for enabling the new era of mobility, not just a means to an end. The IAA Mobility 2023 showcased numerous new connectivity solutions.
Sustainability
The concept of “sustainable mobility” goes beyond emission reduction and the development of alternative propulsion systems. It also encompasses the more efficient use of transportation modes. In public transportation and shared mobility, better utilization can help reduce the number of vehicles in urban areas. Smart cities and vehicle connectivity offer opportunities for smarter and more sustainable traffic management.
The question of whether we can achieve entirely emissions-free driving in the future becomes intriguing due to new projects related to E-fuels and carbon capture. There are many opportunities in the mobility sector to become more sustainable and improve the lives of billions of people and the environment.
The automotive industry is acutely aware of the challenges posed by climate change and is working to make its products and processes more sustainable. Sustainability was a central theme at the IAA Mobility 2023. “Circular economy” is a current buzzword and was a challenging topic in the IAA Mobility Visionary Club.The concept of a circular economy holds the potential to deliver eco-friendly mobility while posing both an opportunity and a challenge for the automotive sector. At its essence, it strives to generate new without depleting fresh resources.
Such an approach enables the sustainable use of finite resources and contributes to reducing CO2 emissions. A new label for sustainable vehicles was also introduced at the IAA.
[infobox headline=”At a glance”]
- The IAA MOBILITY 2023 recorded record participation with 750 exhibitors from 38 countries.
- Over 300 world premieres and innovations were presented.
- The event attracted more than 500,000 visitors, including over 100,000 on a single Saturday.
- International media coverage increased by over 70 percent compared to 2021.
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz opened the event, and over 500 high-profile international speakers discussed the future of mobility.
- Electromobility remains a key trend, with increasing adoption due to legal regulations and financial incentives worldwide.
- Connectivity is becoming increasingly important as cars are becoming digitally connected devices on wheels.
- Sustainable mobility goes beyond emissions reduction and alternative propulsion and includes more efficient use of transportation.
- New projects involving E-fuels and CO2 capture could enable a carbon-neutral future.
- Additional trends include software-defined vehicles, artificial intelligence, and advanced safety technologies.
[/infobox]
The automotive industry is undergoing a massive technological transformation, with electrification, connectivity, and software development shaping the future.
Other Trends at IAA Mobility 2023
Additionally, the IAA Mobility 2023 featured the following trends:
- Software-defined Vehicles: Software is becoming a critical success factor in the automotive industry. New providers of automotive operating systems, such as SONATUS from California, are emerging.
- Artificial Intelligence: Customers increasingly expect personalized products and services. Automotive manufacturers and suppliers are working to personalize their offerings with AI. Numerous new personalized products and services were showcased at the IAA Mobility 2023. For example, German company XaiTeck, which defines applications using Explainable Artificial Intelligence and Knowledge Graphs, presented its innovations.
- Security: Security is a central theme for the automotive industry. The IAA Mobility 2023 introduced various new safety technologies, with a focus on autonomous driving systems. Cybersecurity companies like Magility Cyber Security GmbH also made their presence felt.
The IAA Mobility 2023 demonstrated that the automotive industry is undergoing a massive and profound technological transformation and facing international competition. Electrification, connectivity, and electronification (software) are the most critical technological trends that will continue to shape the industry in the coming years from Magility’s perspective.
