On 19 May to 21 May 2025, the FOREMAST project participated in the opening day of the 16th ITS European Congress in Seville, taking part in the dedicated session “Innovating in Waterborne Mobility: Business and Regulatory Aspects.” Held at the FIBES Conference Centre, the session brought together leading voices from research, policy, and industry to explore the potential of inland waterway transport (IWT) in supporting Europe’s transition toward clean, connected, and efficient mobility systems.
The ITS European Congress welcomed over 3,500 mobility professionals from more than 50 countries under the theme “Clean, Resilient, and Connected Mobility.” The event served as a key platform for sharing cutting-edge ideas and technological innovations in the transport sector.
Moderated by Michela Apruzzese from Ciaotech–PNO, the session featured project presentations from across the waterborne innovation landscape, including ReNEW, PLOTO, AUTOFLEX and FOREMAST. Each project offered a unique perspective on how to align innovation with market needs, regulatory requirements, and real-world deployment opportunities.
Represented by Jeanett Bolther of PNO Consultants, the FOREMAST project presented its forward-looking approach to zero-emission, small-scale, automated vessels, designed to meet the growing demand for flexible and sustainable logistics solutions along Europe’s inland waterways. The project aims to support modal shift from road to water, helping reduce emissions and congestion in urban and interurban freight corridors.
Discussions during the session focused on key enablers for success—including regulatory frameworks, funding mechanisms, and early adopter engagement—while highlighting how projects like FOREMAST are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in waterborne mobility.
In addition to the session, FOREMAST maintained a strong presence throughout the week at the ITS Congress exhibition. Visitors were invited to meet project representative Javier Rivas Infante at Booth C8, hosted within the PNO Consultants Stand, where they could learn more about the project’s technological solutions and explore collaboration opportunities.
