The EvolvEV project aimed to strengthen the technical and entrepreneurial competencies of at least 500 current and future professionals in the EV sector across the Balkan region. As described in the proposal, the project sought to address the increasing demand for more than 10,000 skilled workers by developing a digital learning platform with at least 400 enrolled users, accredited training programs followed by 50 students and 50 engineers, technical workshops for 120 participants, and entrepreneurial summer schools engaging at least 100 students. A key objective was to offer five courses co-created with the EV industry, supported by virtual laboratories, mentorship sessions, and flexible digital learning opportunities accessible even to learners in remote areas. The project also aimed to provide 5-ECTS micro-credentials for course participants to support upskilling and lifelong learning, while enhancing cooperation between universities and industry. Overall, EvolvEV aimed to create a sustainable training ecosystem that would continue operating after the project and contribute to the digital and green transition in higher education.
The EvolvEV project was initiated to address a growing mismatch between the rapid, policy-driven transition to electric mobility and the limited availability of specialized Electric Vehicle (EV) skills in South-Eastern Europe. As EU initiatives, such as the European Green Deal and Fit for 55, accelerate the electrification of the transport sector, partner countries face increasing pressure to prepare a workforce capable of supporting the development of the EV industry. This need was confirmed through advisory board meetings with EV companies in Greece, Romania, Serbia, and North Macedonia, which highlighted that newly graduated engineers often lack the specialized technical competences required by the EV industry. In parallel, low innovation performance and weak start-up ecosystems in the region limit the ability of young professionals to capitalize on emerging EV-related opportunities. EvolvEV responded to these challenges by developing accredited courses and an online open-access training platform integrating learning materials, video lectures, technical virtual labs, and entrepreneurial virtual labs, with the aim of strengthening both the technical and entrepreneurial capacities of students and engineers in the EV sector.