Future of Transport Electrifying Wales

The transportation sector is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. To meet the ambitious 2050 targets, Cardiff must lead the way in transit innovation. The IET invites you to an evening of networking and presentations focused on the electrification of public and private transport. From the South Wales Metro project to the rollout of electric bus fleets, we will cover the engineering triumphs and the logistical nightmares of moving a city away from fossil fuels.

The evening starts with a presentation from the lead engineers on the South Wales Metro project, discussing the challenges of electrifying century-old rail lines and integrating them with modern battery-powered tram-trains. We will then shift focus to the "last mile" problem—how can micro-mobility solutions like e-scooters and e-bikes be safely integrated into Cardiff’s busy streets?

A major theme of the night is the infrastructure requirement for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). While passenger cars are easily electrified, the weight and range requirements of long-haul trucking present a different set of engineering hurdles. We will explore the potential of overhead electric lines on motorways and the role of high-power charging hubs. This is an informal yet highly informative event, designed to spark conversation between different sectors of the transport industry. It is a fantastic opportunity for students and early-career engineers to meet industry veterans and discuss the future of mobility in Wales. The event includes a catered buffet, allowing for extended networking following the formal presentations.