Silicones supporting the EU’s Green Mobility Transition
The EU is accelerating towards a cleaner, greener future, and silicones are playing a key enabling role. Transitioning to greener mobility is a central pillar of the European Green Deal, aiming to achieve a 90% reduction in transport related greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This goal is supported by initiatives like the Sustainable Investment Plan planned for Q3 2025, the Fit for 55 and the 2040 Climate Target. Both demand innovation at every level, relying on advanced materials such as silicones. Our decarbonisation study highlights silicones’ contributions in keeping the EU’s economy competitive throughout the clean energy transition.
Automotive, rail and aviation are examples where silicones deliver on sustainable innovation.
EVs enabled by silicones
Silicones are proving indispensable in making the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) a reality for the EU’s mobility. As outlined in the Action Plan on the future of the automotive sector, the EU aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and move towards zero-emission vehicles. Silicones provide battery protection, ensuring safety and longevity. They act as vital sealants throughout the vehicle, from coatings in airbags to protecting delicate electric engine components. Their thermal management capabilities keep sensitive electronics reliable under demanding conditions. Furthermore, silicones support the infrastructure needed to scale up EVs, as charging stations benefit from the durability and weather resistance of silicones.
The EU is actively promoting EVs as part of its broader strategy to decarbonise road transport. The Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) is accelerating the rollout of essential recharging infrastructure, while the CO2 emission standards regulation demands a significant 15% reduction in CO2 emissions for new cars and vans compared to 2021 targets.
In the landscape of ambitious targets and rapid transformation, silicones will remain essential for the electrification of road transport.
Silicones keeping trains on track
Train travel remains overall the most environmentally friendly mode of motorised passenger transport in Europe for longer distances1. Their efficiency and passenger experience are enhanced by silicones. Trains rely on silicones for foaming applications to enhance comfort, vibration dampening for a quieter ride, and sealing against elements like weather and dust. The EU’s Single European Railway Area (SERA) initiative, aiming for a fully integrated railway network, relies on such material innovations to ensure fair access and efficient operation.
New heights with silicones
Silicones play a vital role in making modern aircraft safer, lighter and more fuel-efficient. Their lightweight components contribute to reduced fuel consumption. Moreover, they are found in foaming applications for insulation and comfort, in fuel tanks, and within engine components. Silicones are essential for aircraft, as their properties are critical to withstand extreme temperatures and pressure.
As the industry looks towards electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft, silicones will continue to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies.
A call for a smoother green mobility transition
As the EU continues to drive innovation, we anticipate new frontiers in mobility. This includes the development of autonomous transport systems, alongside the integration of artificial intelligence. These technologies will require advanced materials like silicones.
Policymakers must recognise and support materials such as silicones that enable a smoother green mobility transition. It is not only about technological advancement, but also about safeguarding the EU’s strategic autonomy, enhancing its global competitiveness, and ensuring a greener and more mobile future for the EU.