The MOW FORUM Andalusia 2022 opened with a critical eye on the prevailing push to position electric vehicles as the sole path to decarbonization. Delegates argued that decarbonization should encompass a broader mix of energies and strategies, stressing that true progress in mobility requires a spectrum of options rather than a single solution. The discussion underscored that diversification of energy sources is pivotal for contemporary and future transport, and that climate neutrality by 2050 remains the shared North American and European target being pursued by policies and industry alike.
At the Andalusia forum, the case was made that private car use should not be penalized but that responsible patterns of ownership and operation must be embedded within a wider, multi-modal mobility system. The emphasis shifted toward integrating private mobility with public transit, cycling, and walking, so communities can move more efficiently while reducing emissions. The conversation highlighted that accommodating diverse user needs is essential to a successful mobility transition, rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach.
In summary, mobility users spoke with clarity about whose interests must be represented in the transition. They argued that user perspectives deserve a seat at the table and should inform the design of policies, infrastructure, and incentives. Only with genuine participation from everyday travelers can a new mobility model gain traction and deliver climate goals without sacrificing personal convenience or accessibility.
The forum also called for targeted research to boost the performance of traditional engines through advanced thermal efficiency and to accelerate safe and sustainable eco-fuel production. It was suggested that evaluating vehicles that deploy different technologies should involve international bodies reviewing how emissions are calculated, with full consideration given to life cycle impacts. This holistic approach would ensure that products and systems are assessed on their total environmental footprint, not just in isolated operation.
On a contrasting note, participants asserted that high-profile sports such as Formula 1 and MotoGP will not achieve zero pollution through the exclusive use of liquid fuels or eco-fuels by 2026. The discussion acknowledged that while greener fuels can reduce emissions, achieving absolute environmental neutrality in motorsport requires integrated solutions beyond fuel type alone, including efficiency improvements, energy recovery, and broader systemic changes across the industry. This perspective highlighted the need for realistic timelines and transparent benchmarking when aligning sports, industry, and policy goals with overall decarbonization efforts. [Attribution: MOW Forum Andalusia 2022 discussions]