To tackle these challenges, a sensible approach is needed to implement vehicle automation developments in real-life applications via large-scale demonstrations such as Field Operational Tests (FOTs) within Living Labs. Additionally, particular use cases for public road transport and logistics should be targeted. The validation of technical enablers (also considering technological readiness), understanding user behaviour, promoting acceptance and advancing societal readiness for both mobility of people and transport of goods remains a major focus. The tests and large-scale demonstrations should be conducted in both mixed traffic conditions and confined areas, where applicable. Ensuring interoperability of connected automated systems across various vehicle brands, regions, and Member States is essential.

Since successful large-scale demonstration activities require strong and early engagement from key stakeholders, comprehensive planning and preparatory actions, leveraging previous and ongoing efforts, are needed to ensure European competitiveness and leadership.

The action should leverage previous and ongoing projects at European and national levels on demonstration activities. It should consider the outcomes of the European software-defined vehicle of the future initiative. The frameworks and guidelines formulated by the CCAM Partnership shall be duly reflected. This is to optimise the return on investments and create a strong basis for future large-scale demonstration projects to boost an industry-wide European deployment strategy for CCAM.

This topic is a Societal-Readiness pilot:

• Proposals should follow the instructions applying to the Societal readiness pilot, as described in the introduction of the Horizon Europe Main Work Programme 2025 for Climate, Energy and Mobility. They entail the use of an interdisciplinary approach to deepening consideration and responsiveness of research and innovation activities to societal needs and concerns.
• This topic requires effective contribution of the relevant SSH expertise, including the involvement of SSH experts in the consortium, to meaningfully support Societal Readiness. Specifically, SSH expertise is expected to facilitate the socio-technological interface and enable the design of project objectives with Societal Readiness related activities.