Energy and Mobility – The Illustrated Energy Primer for Modern Drivers

The path to carbon-neutral mobility is one of the greatest cultural transformations. Caught between industrial tradition, innovative mobility solutions, and energy providers are the drivers of 1.5 million motor vehicles. Conflicting publications on resource availability, energy efficiency, and the climate impact of different propulsion technologies add to their uncertainty. This led to the motivation to an energy guide for consumers, the „Illustrated Energy Primer for Modern Drivers“. The target audience focusses on technically interested individuals, whether as engaged citizens or as professionals. The guide presents the fundamentals of energy and power in a clear and accessible way. Typical energy demands of motor vehicles and households—both in personal use and scaled to a national level—complete this section of the guide. The guide then presents examples of energy generation systems. From coal-fired power plants to wind turbines, solar farms, and even balcony-mounted mini solar systems, key figures and characteristics are clearly explained. At the heart of the guide are nine personal mobility case studies from drivers who have documented responsible approaches to energy consumption. They demonstrate that it is possible to reduce energy use without compromising mobility quality including a nationwide positive impact. From a 16-year-old driving a lightweight electric vehicle to a 50-year-old SUV owner and a 91-year-old using a mobility aid at walking speed, the guide features a wide range of propulsion concepts. It also includes comparisons with alternative modes of transport, such as small electric vehicles, pedelecs (pedal-assist bicycles), and even walking. The Illustrated Energy Primer serves as a bridge between experts and everyday drivers. Its aim is to foster a greater appreciation for energy in the context of mobility and to encourage readers to engage with the sometimes complex calculations involved in energy balance. For the first time, a compact and illustrated resource on energy and mobility is available free of charge for technically interested individuals.