Brussels, 18/09/2014 (Agence Europe) - EU funding has helped reduce energy consumption in electric cars. This is a step forward that is expected to reassure European drivers, who have always been rather lukewarm on electric transport and the range its gives, which is still limited. The 7th EU research framework programme provided €4.4 million in funding for the OpEneR project, which brings together German, Austrian and Spanish partners in developing a smart energy management and recovery system for electric cars. 30% energy savings can be made without losing time, thanks to improved connections between components and systems (electrical powertrain, regenerative braking system, navigation system and surround sensors). The driver receives braking tips based on traffic flows and advice on the best route to limit energy use. European Commissioner for the Digital Agenda Neelie Kroes was delighted that such a European project was going in the right direction: “Who wouldn't want to have a better and safer driving experience, while saving money and our environment? We need smarter and greener ways to move”. Electric vehicles equipped with this smart driving system were introduced in Spain earlier this year and the European Union aims to have 8-9 million electric vehicles on the road by 2020. (MD)