Ida Wernström gives us insight into her work in electromobility

Ida joined AFRY in 2014 and has since held various roles within the automotive industry. By defining, prioritising, developing and following up on product features and goals, Ida has played a crucial role in the development of autonomous transport solutions and electrification initiatives.

Tell us more about your role at AFRY

Currently, I am product owner (PO) in a project developing large-scale autonomous transport solutions, i.e. self-driving trucks. It is a “hub-to-hub" driverless freight system that soon will be introduced to the market. The main goal is to create benefits in terms of productivity, safety, sustainability and energy efficiency for both customers and society.

What we specifically are developing is a standardised global autonomous technology platform. I am the owner of the software for the so-called autonomous functions in the base vehicle, which determines whether autonomous driving can take place or not.

Ida explains that the electrification of the automotive industry is a complex challenge that requires a society with standardised and widespread charging infrastructure, good and safe batteries and sustainable material production. Additionally, people with the right skills are needed to enable the complex development. Another crucial element is cooperation across business, industry and national borders to agree and define standards.

How do we succeed with electrification in the automotive industry?

I see two important factors for successful electrification: availability and reliability. Vehicles need to meet the majority of society's transport needs and markets, meaning they must have long range in all climates and weather, with good possibilities for fast charging or changing of batteries. Sustainable and affordable electricity is also important, and future electricity prices could be a significant challenge for the success of electrification. The power grid needs to be stable and designed to handle the loads and high charging demands resulting from extensive electrification. With large-scale expansion of electric vehicles, charging may need to be structured and planned, but more flexible options to quickly use the vehicle must also be offered.

Electrification is not an area that solely concerns or is fully solved within the normal technical development of vehicles. This is what makes it complex. It is a much greater task, a societal challenge and transformation that I believe will be solved with a collective effort, clear directives and cooperation.

Have you been involved in any particular electrification projects that you would like to talk about?

The projects have been very fun and varied, both in technical development and leadership roles. It is exciting to see projects from different perspectives. Some examples include the development of a cab-less self-driving electric vehicle for public road transport solutions (Vera), power supply and wake-up mode of electric vehicles, and conductive and inductive charging of vehicle batteries.

What I value most about my job is developing exciting future technology that makes a difference while fostering my personal growth. Additionally, the flexibility, variation, and the opportunity to work in different areas and roles are of great importance.

Finally, do you see any difference from when you started working in this area compared to now?

The difference is mainly that more and more is happening within the electrification area. In the beginning, automotive companies did not know if they should invest in electrification or not. Then it was more about being first to market. Now it has somewhat transitioned to being a natural technology choice and to keep up with the rapid development.

It is an incredibly exciting field to work in and interesting to be part of how future vehicles and transportation solutions will look like.