Siemens’ CEO Franco Atassi On The Future of Mobility And Energy In The Middle East

Q: Siemens has been tasked with building EV charging corridors in the UAE. How far this project has gone? What are the spotlights of the project? 

A: The partnership between Siemens and the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure is making significant progress. Under our agreement, we're developing a nationwide network of ultra-fast EV charging stations. We are in the process of installing Siemens Sicharge 160 kW ultra-fast chargers at various strategic points along highways throughout the country, with the capacity to scale power up to 300 kW. These chargers are cloud-connected, providing a cutting-edge digital interface that enables remote monitoring and efficient management. This is just the first step in a broader vision of a digitally connected, sustainable transportation infrastructure, making this project a spotlight in our ongoing commitment to helping our customers in the UAE in their sustainability and digital transformation journeys.

Q: The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Audi Middle East, and Siemens have banded together to bestow a monumental push towards the widespread usage of electric cars, alongside invigorating the development of EV charging infrastructure across federal roads. An impressive 10 advanced fast-charging stations will be placed by Siemens along highways in Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain, all cloud-connected and remotely controllable for the convenience of operators. Is Siemens open to signing more EV deals with car makers in UAE? Can you elaborate on this development?

A: Siemens is certainly open to further collaborations and agreements with automakers in the UAE and across the region, especially those who have electric vehicles in their portfolio, or the nascent companies that will produce EVs. In the UAE, we have partnerships with Audi, Stellantis, and Al Futtaim, to name a few. We have shown a strong track record of successful global collaborations, including those with the Cellforce Group and Porsche, to develop advanced battery technologies and other crucial eMobility solutions. Our overall strategy is to continue fostering relationships that align with our goals of promoting sustainability and accelerating digital transformation. We firmly believe that such partnerships are key to driving innovative solutions for the challenges of tomorrow.

Q: Rather than just investing in roads and public transit systems, governments need to consider all aspects of smart mobility, including the user experience, transportation modes currently in use, more advanced solutions still in development, data and technology, infrastructure, and governance and regulation. Do you agree with this?

A: Absolutely, smart mobility is not just about transport infrastructure. It encapsulates a wider perspective. It's about leveraging technology, data, and innovative solutions to make transport more efficient, sustainable, and user centric. Every aspect of the transportation ecosystem, including user experience, transportation modes, the energy mix, data analytics, infrastructure, and governance, needs to be optimized. This holistic approach is essential for creating a sustainable, resilient, and efficient transportation system that can meet the challenges of urbanization and climate change and enhance the quality of life for all.

Q: Although still in the early stages of development, smart mobility has already changed the way people, goods, and services move. Please tell us more.

A: The advent of smart mobility has indeed revolutionized the transport sector. Through the integration of digital technologies, such as AI and IoT, with traditional transportation, we've seen a shift towards more efficient, flexible, and sustainable modes of movement. Real-time data analytics has enabled predictive maintenance, traffic management, and route optimization, and this has been most pronounced in the speed and efficiency of deliveries of all kinds of goods. Additionally, emerging concepts like shared mobility and, in the future, autonomous vehicles, will reshape our commuting habits and reduce our carbon footprint. With the rise of electric vehicles, we're not just moving people and goods but doing so in a way that's less harmful to our planet. These advancements underline how smart mobility is shaping the future of transportation.

Q: EV batteries are still one of the most expensive components in an EV vehicle. How do you see this changing over the next few years?

A: The high cost of EV batteries remains a barrier to widespread EV adoption and is also a major constraint for auto manufacturers. However, I am optimistic about the future. Technological advancements, increased production scales, and more efficient supply chains have driven down costs in the past, and we expect in the long term this will drive down costs. This means that electric vehicles will become more affordable, which will inevitably spur adoption rates. The development of new battery technologies, and the potential of new economic models that leverage the dual role that cars have as energy storage when they aren’t in use, hold promise for even more efficient and cost-effective electric vehicles in the future.

Q: What are your thoughts with respect to the challenges we currently face due to the region's 1) Risk of grid overload and 2) High-carbon grid profile which negates the effectiveness of EVs?

A: These are valid concerns. Grid overload and a high-carbon grid profile can indeed diminish the effectiveness of electric vehicles. That's why at Siemens, we're focused on creating smart grid solutions that not only accommodate the increased electricity demand from EVs but do so in a sustainable manner. Advanced grid management systems can balance loads effectively to prevent overload. Furthermore, technology in smart grids can improve the share of renewable energy. This would ensure that the electricity used to charge EVs is generated in an environmentally friendly manner, which is crucial for a truly green transport solution.

Q: How did you get involved in the mobility industry? What excites you about the industry?

A: My involvement in the industry stemmed from my passion for technological innovation and the positive impact it can have on society. I’ve worked at Siemens for almost three decades, delivering technology that transforms industry, infrastructure, and transportation. Witnessing the rapid evolution of technology and its transformative potential is nothing short of exhilarating. From the advancements in EVs to the strides in digital connectivity and sustainable infrastructure, it's clear that we're redefining the future of mobility. It's a privilege to contribute and play a part in shaping a greener, more efficient, and more connected world.

Q: Where does sustainability feature in your life both professionally and personally?

A: Sustainability is a crucial component of both my professional life at Siemens and my personal lifestyle. In my role at Siemens, sustainability is deeply ingrained in our mission, shaping our products, services, and overall strategy. On a personal level, I strive to lead a sustainable lifestyle and minimize my carbon footprint where I can. It’s a struggle, especially with the need for air conditioning in our climate as well as travel obligations, but it’s also important to remain conscience of what is required to live and work responsibly, and what can be done differently. This is a balance I strive for, and I learn a great deal about how to be more sustainable from younger colleagues and my adult children who are helping lead the change. 

Q: What would you like to do in your free time?

A: In my free time, I'm genuinely passionate about staying abreast of emerging technologies and trends that are shaping the future of my industry. I’ve been doing this work for decades, and passion is what motivates me. This keeps me excited about my work and continuously fuels my drive to contribute to the industry. Beyond my professional interests, I love spending time outdoors, preferably on my bike, and seeing the natural splendor around us. This balance of work, lifelong learning, and enjoyment of nature keeps me grounded and focused.