Urban Agenda and Electric Vehicle

The working day brought together representatives of the quadruple helix: companies from the automotive sector, academia and professional training, users and various institutions. The session was structured into two blocks:

• A first block focused on gathering the future perspectives of the electric vehicle from the point of view of the different participants and challenges.
  • The challenges of the sector for the transformation towards a new model were addressed by Juan José Berbel from Metyis (a consulting firm that operates in a wide range of industries).
  • The impacts on health and the environment were presented by Carolyn Daher from the Global Health Institute of Barcelona.
  • Carmen Ruiz (Head of the Public Space and Mobility Service of Sant Boi) and Carles Conill (AMB) presented the transformation of the C-245.
  • Elisabet Latorre (Councilor for Economic Development of Sant Boi) and Vicenç Muñoz ( Grup T Automoció ) presented Sant Boi Motor, City of Sustainable Mobility.

• A second block focused on developing shared visions based on key areas for the future of the electric vehicle. The participants were divided into different dialogue tables to detect obstacles and opportunities, debate and prioritize the next steps.

After the session, the following areas of action were identified:

1. Knowledge

Throughout the day, the need for greater understanding of aspects linked to the new model of public space and mobility was repeatedly highlighted. Conversations with technical experts helped dispel misconceptions, discussed users’ confusion, and showcased innovative initiatives being implemented elsewhere. Knowledge must be generated and shared to promote this transformation.

2. Proximity

The link between mobility and public space was a recurring theme. Discussions included the location of charging points, the role of dealerships and small workshops, new mobility-sharing formulas, and reclaiming space from vehicles to create friendlier, healthier cities. Proximity was a central value in all these discussions, emphasizing experimentation and pilot projects to provide practical solutions.

3. Training

The need for new professional profiles to enable this transformation was clear. Some participants noted ongoing efforts, while others highlighted the disconnect between current training programs and the demands of local companies. In order to respond to the new professional profiles that will emerge, accelerating professional training and improving the attractiveness of careers in this sector are essential. The singularities of Sant Boi generate an opportunity in this field that is worth exploring and developing.

4. Financing

The lack of funding to implement this new model of public space and mobility was mentioned multiple times. Funding sources such as the Barcelona Provincial Council and Next Generation funds were presented as means to support this transformation. For this reason, we consider it essential to establish a line of action that seeks what funding instruments exist to be able to carry out the rest of the areas of action.