Energy-efficient software-defined EVs (2ZERO Partnership)
Funding for energy-efficient software-defined electric vehicles within the framework of the 2ZERO partnership. Applications possible until 14.04.2026.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
Promotion of research and development of energy-efficient, scalable Software-Defined Vehicles (SDV) and their integration into charging infrastructure and energy management systems.
Eligible expenses
- Personnel expenses
- Travel and accommodation costs
- Subcontractor services
- Equipment and component costs
- Publication costs
Non-eligible expenses
- Acquisition of real estate
- Retroactive costs
Eligible to apply
- Companies
- Educational Institutions
- Non-profit Organizations
- Public Institutions
Funding requirements
- Legal registration in EU member states or Horizon Europe associated countries
- Experience in EU research and innovation projects
- Consortium of at least three independent partners in different countries
Documents required for application
- Cover letter
- Project description
- Methodology description
- CVs of key personnel
- Financial plan
- Declaration of EU registration (PIC)
Evaluation criteria
- Degree of innovation
- Contribution to climate protection
- Quality of the consortium
Description
The 2ZERO partnership promotes research and development of energy-efficient, scalable Software-Defined Vehicles (SDV) within the framework of the HORIZON-CL5-2026-05-D5-02 calls. The objective is the design, demonstration, and validation of intelligent electric vehicles with optimized hardware-software architecture that can be seamlessly integrated into charging infrastructure and energy management systems. Particular focus is placed on novel drive and chassis systems, Vehicle-to-Grid functionalities (V2G), as well as AI-based workflows to increase range, reduce consumption, and minimize resource use. The funding rate is up to 100% (RIA) or up to 70% (IA) depending on the partner, with a duration of up to 36 months and a total budget of €16 million per project. Submissions by consortia of at least three independent partners from different EU or Horizon Europe-associated countries are possible until April 14, 2026.
Interested companies, research institutions, NGOs, and public bodies with proven expertise in embedded systems, software development, and energy management benefit from this funding. Eligible costs include personnel and travel expenses, subcontracting services, equipment and components, as well as publications. Real estate purchases and retrospective costs are excluded. Selection is based on innovation content, climate protection contribution, and consortium quality. Required application documents include a cover letter, project and methodology description, CVs of key personnel, financial plan, and EU registration (PIC). With a view to rapid technology transfer, the program contributes to the decarbonization of transport and the strengthening of the European automotive and energy sectors.