Reducing emissions from road freight remains a complex challenge, particularly when addressing not only exhaust emissions but also less visible sources such as tyre wear particles. Smart Air Technologies, a Slovak SME, developed an innovative concept combining automatic tyre pressure management with emissions monitoring. However, transforming this concept into a large-scale, impactful initiative required a clearer understanding of its place within the European innovation and funding landscape.
Within the Hopero framework, the company was supported in translating its technical idea into a structured innovation pathway. This process focused on defining how the solution delivers environmental value, how it compares to existing approaches, and where it fits within ongoing European efforts in sustainable mobility. By analysing similar EU-funded projects and identifying gaps in current solutions, the company was able to better articulate its unique contribution.
An important step was aligning the development stage of the technology with appropriate funding instruments. Through this process, the LIFE Programme emerged as a suitable option, particularly due to its focus on demonstrating environmental impact under real conditions. The support also helped clarify how the solution could be deployed at scale, including relevant use cases, operational environments, and expected benefits for transport operators.
As a result, the ECOPRESSURE initiative evolved into a well-defined project with a clear implementation logic and strong potential for replication. Its focus on measurable environmental outcomes and practical applicability positions it as a relevant contribution to reducing emissions in the transport sector and advancing sustainable mobility objectives across Europe.
