By A Closer Look into the Tangible Aspects of E-Mobility and Electrification in the Energy Sector
As the world grapples with the dual challenge of combating climate change and reducing fossil fuel reliance, e-mobility and electrification are emerging as critical drivers of the next generation of energy innovation. While electric vehicles (EVs) are the most visible aspect, the transformation extends far beyond transportations. It envisions a world where energy is used more efficiently, where clean energy generation becomes the norm, and where technologies are continually evolving to create a cleaner, greener and more sustainable energy ecosystem.
The rapid rise of EVs is matched by advancements in charging infrastructure, battery technology, and smart grids, all of which are an essential component of the broader electrification of the energy system. Fast-charging solutions, such as ultra-rapid and wireless charging are making EVs more accessible, while innovations in battery storage, including solid-state batteries and second-life applications are improving energy efficiency and extending battery life.
The global EV market has seen impressive growth in recent years, accounting to nearly 14 million electric cars being registered worldwide, bringing the total number on the roads to 40 million. This growth represents a 35% increase from 2022, with the majority of sales occurring in China, Europe and the United States1. Electric cars accounted for 18% of all cars sold in 2023, up from 14% in 2022 and only 2% in 2018.
In the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 scenario, electric car sales are projected to reach around 65% of total car sales by 2030, having then to increase by an average of 23% per year from 2025 to 20302.
Moreover, the integration of e-mobility with smart grids and IoT Technologies is enhancing the way energy is distributed and managed. V2G systems allow EVs to serve as decentralised energy storage units, helping to balance supply and demand on the grid. Electrification is also expanding beyond personal transportation, with electric buses, trucks and trains playing an increasingly significant role in reducing urban emissions and decarbonising logistics. As these technologies continue to evolve, they are not only shaping the future of mobility but also transforming the entire energy ecosystem, making the transition to a low-carbon world a reality.
A Closer Look at the Statistics on the Path to a Sustainable E-Mobility Future
Electrification in transport plays a key role in reducing oil dependence, with estimates suggesting that by 2030, EVs could displace over 6 million barrels of oil demand per day3. This shift will also result in significant savings estimated to £250 billion annually in fuel costs by 20404.
Despite this progress, infrastructure expansion remains a critical challenge as the current ratio of EVs to charging points worldwide is approximately 10:1 with experts predicting the need for over 40 million public chargers installed globally by 20305. To meet this target, governments and private sector players are working towards closing this gap with $500 billion expected to be invested in EV charging infrastructure by 20406.
Battery technology is yet another enabler. Lithium-ion battery costs have declined by 89% since 2010, making EVs increasingly cost-competitive with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles7. In addition, solid-state battery technology is expected to commercialise by 2028, providing higher energy density and significantly reducing charging times8. These developments underscore the transformative impact of e-mobility and electrification on the global energy landscape, highlighting the importance of continued innovation and investment in this sector.
The Role of Free Electrons Startups in E-Mobility and Electrification
Startups are driving innovation across the e-mobility and electrification sector, addressing challenges in advanced charging solutions, energy management and grid integration. These emerging startups are not only providing cutting-edge technologies but also forging crucial partnerships with utilities to help accelerate the transition to a low-carbon energy system. Below, we spotlight a few standout startups leading the charge.
Driivz, an Israeli startup from the 2017 cohort, has positioned itself as a leader in the EV charging management platform space. Their platform delivers scalable, data-driven solutions for managing EV charging networks, empowering utilities and fleet owners to optimize infrastructure. What sets them apart is its ability to handle complex networks with ease, ensuring that EV users can access the power they need, whenever they need it.
Their partnership with ESB in Ireland is a prime example of its impact. Together, they are working to enhance the EV charging experience in Ireland, ensuring reliable access to charging stations while supporting the broader grid infrastructure. The collaboration not only demonstrates Driivz’s ability to integrate advanced software with real-world infrastructure but also showcases the value of digital tools in managing an increasingly electrified world.
Chargetrip, a Dutch startup from the 2020 cohort, is tackling one of the most pressing challenges in the e-mobility space: the need for an efficient and widespread charging infrastructure. Their platform optimises route planning for EV drivers by integrating real-time data on available charging stations, ensuring that drivers have the most accurate and up-to-date information. Chargetrip’s focus on sustainability is evident in their commitment to making EV journeys more convenient and accessible while supporting the efficient integration of renewable energy sources into the grid.
Their collaboration with EDP is contributing to the creation of an integrated EV charging solution that enhances the EV adoption experience for consumers while promoting the use of renewable energy. By combining cutting-edge software with a growing network of chargers, Chargetrip is actively contributing to the creation of a greener, more connected future.
FlexEnergi, formerly known as Flexcharging and part of the Free Electrons 2023 cohort, is a US-based startup that is redefining the EV charging landscape. Their innovative smart charging platform leverages dynamic load management, real-time analytics and flexible pricing models to optimize EV charging networks, empowering utilities and fleet operators to enhance infrastructure efficiency. What distinguishes FlexEnergi is its seamless integration with existing grid systems, ensuring that EV users experience consistent and reliable power delivery even during periods of peak demand9.
Recognising the potential of advanced digital charging solutions, ESB Networks in Ireland initiated a strategic collaboration with FlexEnergi. This partnership aligns with ESB Networks’s Flexibility Multi-Year Plan (2025-2029) and is focused on deploying cutting-edge smart charging solutions that support grid stability and maximize energy efficiency. By integrating FlexEnergi’s state-of-the-art platform with their own infrastructure, ESB Networks is able to monitor and manage charging loads in real time, effectively mitigating peak demand challenges while promoting sustainable energy consumption. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in transforming Ireland’s energy ecosystem and demonstrates how innovative digital solutions can drive the transition toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future.
The Road Ahead for E-Mobility and Electrification
E-mobility and electrification are reshaping the way we move and the way energy is generated, stored and consumed. As EV infrastructure expands, battery technology advances and smart grid solutions become more integrated, a more connected and resilient energy ecosystem is emerging. Ultra-fast and wireless charging solutions are enhancing accessibility, while battery recycling and second-life applications are a circular economy.
The transformation is not limited to personal transportation. Public transit, freight and logistics are all undergoing electrification, dramatically reducing emissions and improving urban air quality. Startups like Driivz, Chargetrip and FlexEnergi in partnership with utilities are playing a vital role in addressing infrastructure challenges and driving transition to a low-carbon economy.
As the evolution of EV infrastructure, smart grids and energy storage continues to gain momentum, the future of e-mobility is undeniably bright. Free Electrons is committed to bringing change by fostering collaboration, supporting innovation and empowering startups to shape the sustainable future of energy and mobility.
Learn more about the future of e-mobility and electrification at Free Electrons.
1 International Energy Agency (IEA). (2023). Global EV Outlook 2024.IEA. https://www.iea.org/reports/gloabl.ev.outlook-2024
2 International Energy Agency (IEA). (2024). Trends in Electric Cars – Global EV Outlook 2024 – analysis. IEA. https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2024/trends-in-electriss-cars
3 International Energy Agency (IEA). (2024). Trends in Electric Cars – Global EV Outlook 2024 – analysis. IEA. https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2024/trends-in-electriss-cars
4 McKinsey & Company. (2023, December). Accelerating the Journey to Net-Zero.
5 International Energy Agency (IEA). (2024). Trends in Electric Cars – Global EV Outlook 2024 – analysis. IEA. https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2024/trends-in-electriss-cars
6 BloombergNEF. (2024). Evo report 2024: Bloombergnef: Bloomberg finance LP. https://about-bnef.com/electric-vehicle-outlook/
7 BloombergNEF. (2024). Evo report 2024: Bloombergnef: Bloomberg finance LP. https://about-bnef.com/electric-vehicle-outlook/
8 MIT Energy Initiative. (2022). The Future of Energy Storage – An Interdisciplinary MIT Study.
9 Free electrons: Unlocking the power of Global Energy Innovation. ESB Corporate. (2025, January 14). https://esb.ie/media-centre-news/blog/article/esb/2025/01/14/free-electrons–unlocking-the-power-of-global-energy-innovation
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