In order to meet climate protection targets and improve air quality in urban areas, fundamental changes in the transport sector are needed in the near future. Vehicle concepts that have so far led a niche existence can contribute to this: small and light electric vehicles below the passenger car class (LEV), such as cargo bikes, or 3- and 4-wheeled electric vehicles in the L class. The best-known example of the latter is the Twizy from Renault. Small electric vehicles such as e-scooters, e-bikes and pedelecs are to be distinguished from these.

As part of the study, experts from industry, politics and research were asked about vehicle technology, production, value creation and market potential. A key conclusion of the expert survey: without a change in the framework conditions for LEVs, a significant increase in market share is unlikely in the coming years. If widespread use of LEVs is desired in view of their potential contribution to climate protection, air quality and urban design, the vehicles must be promoted with a combination of push and pull measures. Examples of possible measures include traffic control interventions such as reserved lanes and parking spaces for LEVs on the one hand and an increase in the cost of using cars on the other (e.g. through charges or the introduction of toll systems).