Research focus: carbon-free mobility

The transition to sustainable mobility is accelerating as new propulsion and steering technologies take off. The decarbonisation of maritime transport, with the development of wind propulsion as well as hydrogen and electric transport, is redefining the design and use of vehicles. Artificial intelligence is driving the development of autonomous vehicles that are safer and more efficient.

These innovations are accompanying the shift towards cleaner, connected and smarter mobility solutions that benefit both local communities and the planet.

Flagship projects

Centrale Nantes is working alongside industry leaders to convert the internal combustion engines of light commercial vehicles to hydrogen propulsion. The school’s research teams are contributing through the development of digital models and tests on a real prototype engine to optimize engine architecture and technical applied solutions, aiming to enhance performance and reduce emissions. A prototype vehicle has already been tested in Germany.

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Wind propulsion, a key issue in maritime decarbonisation, is at the heart of the PropVelBa project being carried out in the Centrale Nantes test tanks. The aim is to develop a digital emulator capable of reproducing the aerodynamic forces of different systems (rigid sails, Flettner rotors, kites, etc.). Coupled with a physical model in the tank, this innovative device will enable performance to be evaluated and optimised under realistic conditions.

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The PARMATAC project is creating a shared, instrumented outdoor testing ground for autonomous vehicles and drones. It brings together cutting-edge research on extended perception, combining data from connected infrastructure, drones, and vehicles. The platform will enable testing and validation of technologies that improve navigation, coordination, and operational safety in real-world environments.

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