On 3 December 2025, Rome will host the first Urban Living Lab Workshop of the European project Smile City, dedicated to the design and prototyping of an off-grid e-bike charging station powered by photovoltaic panels and built with recycled materials. The workshop will turn the city into a space for experimentation where researchers, companies, designers, students and local innovators will work together on the technologies and materials that support the transition to circular, low-emission cities.
A European project for sustainable mobility
SMILE CITY is funded by Horizon Europe and involves 35 partners in 13 countries. Its goal is to develop systemic circular solutions to reduce emissions, improve resource efficiency and increase the use of secondary raw materials in urban environments. At the centre of the project is the Pilot, an off-grid e-bike charging station powered by solar panels and second-life electric vehicle batteries.
The structure – a prefabricated concrete system containing recycled content – also integrates additional urban features such as seating, lighting and information elements, combining safety, functionality and sustainable design.
The workshop: connecting research, design and local communities
Organised by CNR, ETRA and the project partners, the workshop will take place in person at the CNR headquarters in Piazzale Aldo Moro, with the possibility to join online. The agenda includes technical presentations and interactive sessions focusing on:
- challenges of urban mobility and the needs of public administrations and user
- eco-design approaches for prefabricated structures and recycled material
- SMILE CITY solutions: photovoltaic panels, second-life batteries and structural components
- how the Urban Living Lab works: working groups, prototyping activities, timelines and upcoming events
The afternoon will feature an open discussion on design options: size and power of the station, number of plugs, possible additional uses of the stored energy, digital applications, anti-vandalism measures and integration of furniture and services.
An open event for students, researchers and professionals
The workshop is aimed at a diverse audience including university students, graduates, researchers, designers, makers, technicians and professionals. The goal is to bring together skills, ideas and perspectives to co-design a solution that can be replicated across European cities.
The event will be held in English, with an Italian summary available on request. It represents a valuable opportunity to actively contribute to the development of a sustainable and innovative urban infrastructure.
How to participate
Participation is free, both in person and online. Registration is required HERE. The complete programme is available HERE.
