The European Commission has put electric vehicles at the heart of its commitment to the long-term goal of reducing carbon emissions by 60% within the transport sector by 2050.According to a 2011 report by the European Commission, between 1990 and 2009, CO2 emissions from road transport increased by 18%. Electric vehicles have emerged as one of the key players in the quest to diversify road transport energy sources and thus potentially help the European Union achieve its CO2 emissions reduction targets.The electric vehicle (EV) sector has grown steadily over the past few years and the benefits of a thriving market are potentially huge, especially if considered alongside other technical developments such as intelligent transport systems and smart grids. However, severe barriers to a wider adoption remain in place due to the limited range of models available, high costs and long recharge time, consumers’ negative perceptions and lack of significant price incentives. Nevertheless, several important developments have taken place this year, which it is hoped will boost the fledgling EV market in Europe.The European Commission is pushing to widen existing regulation on emissions beyond light duty vehicles (cars and vans), to govern other road vehicles as well. This will offer a significant incentive for the EV market, whose ‘green competitiveness’ could provide an attractive alternative to traditional road transport. New investments are being made in research and development and institutions are also paying renewed attention to the barriers which prevent a full-scale development of a European-wide market for electric vehicles, stimulating the establishment of a continent-wide action plan. A partnership of electro-mobility regions has been established to support the common development of electro-mobility across Europe. Close collaboration between this partnership and the Green e-motion project will be vital for a successful impact across Europe.This international symposium seeks to move the current EV debate forward and examine the existing market entry barriers for electric vehicles. The symposium will explore the need for flexible partnerships between diverse industries such as telecommunication, energy providers, manufacturers, suppliers and retailers to ensure improvements in both consumer acceptance and perceptions.Public Policy Exchange welcomes the participation of all automotive industry partners, responsible authorities and stakeholders. The symposium will support the exchange of ideas and encourage delegates to engage in thought-provoking topical debate, providing input and recommendations to the decision makers at EU level.