Keynote Address on Thessaloniki Metro as a European Model
Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas delivered a keynote speech at the Mobility Next event, outlining the Thessaloniki Metro's €1 billion project as a flagship sustainable mobility initiative with direct European funding and systemic impact. He emphasized the city's potential to serve as a replicable example for smart, sustainable urban transport solutions across Europe, highlighting more than 300 ongoing projects nationwide, such as CityMobil and eCharge4Drivers.
Focus on Sustainability and Electrification
The Commissioner stressed the European Commission's ambitious target for climate neutrality by 2050, emphasizing transport’s central role in reducing emissions by 90%. Specific interim goals include raising the market share of electric vehicles, which surpassed 15% in the EU, and accelerating the deployment of home charging infrastructure, which has expanded 40% faster than fleet growth. These targets reflect a clear policy orientation favoring increased electrification and stringent emission reductions within urban transport.
Policy Proposals and Support Measures
Tzitzikostas advanced concrete proposals including enhanced investment in battery technologies, with a €1 billion Innovation Fund to support production facilities. Policy instruments aim to reduce dependency on imported raw materials and simplify approval processes. Support for digital innovations like AI algorithms for smart traffic management and cross-border infrastructure is flagged, alongside Croatia’s leadership in pan-European infrastructure development.
Stakeholder Implications
The proposals demand increased EU funding commitments and regulatory oversight, potentially challenging national authorities to coordinate on infrastructure upgrades. Industry players in electric mobility and battery manufacturing stand to gain from new investments and market expansion. Urban residents may benefit from improved safety and reduced pollution, but also face implementation disruptions. Overall, the Commissioner positions sustainable, smart mobility not only as a policy objective but as a practical opportunity for European integration and innovation in public transport.