With New Initiative, UGA Seeks To Lead In Electric Mobility Space

33 electric buses have been taking UGA students across campus over the last year as part of an effort to make commuting a “little greener.” 

Now a university-wide initiative looks to make UGA a top player in the booming statewide e-mobility movement. 

Georgia has become a hub for electric mobility innovation, prompting the governor to announce the ​​Georgia Electric Mobility and Innovation Alliance (EMIA) last summer.

The state has attracted major national and international players, like SK Battery, Enchem Ltd., TEKLA, GEDIA, Dongwon Tech, and Heliox. Local startups, including Energy Assurance, Resilient Power, and several being tested at the Curiosity Lab in Peachtree Corners, have also taken off to create bring more sustainable transportation options to market. 

UGA can build on that potential, says Donald Leo, dean of the College of Engineering. 

 

A photo of one of the first electric buses at the bus stop at Tate Plaza across from Sanford Stadium on central campus.

 

Last month UGA announced an Electric Mobility Initiative, which will include a $1 million seed fund for e-mobility projects, the launch of an E-Mobility Certificate, and expanded research opportunities in the battery re-use and recycling space.

It will also host an Electric Mobility Summit in April to bring together thought leaders in Athens.

The initiative will bring together faculty and students from across the university, including the College of Engineering, the School of Public and International Affairs, the Carl Vinson Institute of Government, and the Terry College of Business.

Leo told Hypepotamus that “interdisciplinary teams of faculty will be able to propose innovative research, education, and service programs that connect with local programs and/or communities throughout the State. Peers from across the campus will assess the merits of the proposal and the highest-ranked programs will be funded.” 

Leo added that “the challenges and impact of transforming the transportation network will provide opportunities in faculty, staff, and students across almost all programs at UGA.”