Let's Create More Examples!
Let's Create More Examples!
While Thomas acknowledges many decision-makers have been waiting for ‘the big revolutionary bang’ in the mobility space, he believes we've reached a tipping point in the evolution towards more human-friendly transportation systems in large cities. "Whenever possible, our work aims to embrace electric solutions and reimagine urban spaces that were once dominated by cars. Constant improvements in battery technologies, better data storage solutions, the emergence of new mobility services on two and four wheels, and a focus on access over ownership all contribute to offering solutions with real impact for urban mobility." In short, Thomas believes that if the steps along the evolutionary path align with industry and political forces, sustainable transformation for smart cities is well within reach.
Urban areas are witnessing a shift in people's behaviours, with sustainability and efficiency taking centre stage. Thomas is confident that this shift in mindset presents an opportunity for new offerings and services. He envisions a future where mobility services are integrated into interconnected ecosystems with widespread government support. He cites Amsterdam as a prime example: "The city addressed its parking shortage by linking it to personal responsibility. If you want a parking spot near your home, you also need to apply for a charging station. Additionally, tax incentives were introduced for electric company cars. Combining these initiatives has boosted the adoption of electric vehicles in Amsterdam, making it a global role model for reimagining transportation." Interestingly, the Netherlands' transition from car-centric city to a cycling haven was prompted by a rise in traffic-related fatalities, leading to an upsurge in popularity of e-bikes and electric vehicles.
«With a population of 17 million, The Netherlands boasts >23 million bicycles and >3100 bike shops. Amsterdam alone has 770km of bike paths, partially funded by revenue from car parking charges.»
Thomas and his team excel at the intersection of energy and mobility. Cosmic Cat Group's expertise extends to advising automotive and energy firms, as well as governmental bodies, including transport ministries worldwide. "I get immense satisfaction from crafting ambitious plans, observing market dynamics, and underpinning aspirations with robust strategies," Thomas explains. His typically serious demeanour softens as he speaks passionately about his company.
"Cosmic Cat functions as a team of dedicated idealists," he adds, "and we thrive when tackling highly specialized challenges with our deep industry knowledge and networks. Our collaborative approach shines when working in close partnerships with our clients." This collaborative spirit is what Thomas values in working with Baloise. "In the mobility sector, the company operates like a venture capital entity, uniting diverse mobility services within their ecosystem. In return, we provide expertise in due diligence and growth strategies in electromobility. Simultaneously, we gain invaluable insights spanning the spectrum of tomorrow's mobility. It's a mutually beneficial learning process."
Growing up in a family of carpenters in a village near Biberach, Thomas' journey to becoming a mobility and energy strategist wasn't linear. In 2002, he was part of an indie rock band while studying music and philosophy. Alongside his studies, he ventured into freelance journalism. "It wasn't until a bandmate skyrocketed to fame overnight that I realized my disillusionment with the music industry and the need for reinvention."
From 2004 onwards, his focus at university shifted to technology and product management. "I felt a strong urge to bridge the gap between energy and automotive. Back then, this was uncharted territory, and 'sector coupling' was not a buzzword as it is today," he smiles. His career path led him to the Fraunhofer Institute in Freiburg, where he contributed to solar energy systems. While at Mercedes, he played a role in developing early hydrogen vehicles. Between 2010-2012, he conducted pioneering work in product management for charging stations at EnBW. Engagements followed with Bosch and Porsche, adding to his impressive professional resume.
Reflecting on his experience, Thomas says, "Perhaps the most significant lesson I've learned is the unwavering belief that something substantial can emerge from humble beginnings. Fully committing to a project, despite its challenges, reaps rewards. Often, it's not a lack of funding but a shortage of courage and determination that hinders progress. Success comes from commitment to continuous improvement and staying open to learning."
In 2013, Thomas joined "Hubject", a joint venture focused on connecting charging infrastructure. The collaboration brought together energy providers, OEMs, and suppliers. As Thomas moved from R&D Chief to CEO, a vision began to take shape. Today, thanks to that innovative idea, electric vehicle drivers can access one of the largest e-roaming networks for e-mobility, regardless of their energy provider, and experience seamless charging worldwide.
"I firmly believe our future lies in aggregating services across systems and borders. Some pioneering cities are already offering various transportation options through single mobility stations. These so-called 'smart cities' consolidate diverse services into a single app, and this is just the beginning. As customer offerings become more streamlined, interconnected, and personalised systems will evolve into even smarter entities. The appeal of owning a car that remains stationary 96% of the time, occupies significant space, and weighs a few tons is dwindling both economically and in terms of convenience."
«I firmly believe our future lies in aggregating services across systems and borders. So-called 'smart cities' consolidate diverse services into a single app.»
Acquiring new competencies in software, big data, sensor technology, and energy is crucial. Speed, resilience, and adaptability are essential components of breaking free from car ownership. "Success hinges on enduring partnerships," Thomas emphasizes, "just like our collaboration with Baloise. We need mobility visionaries with the determination to act, backed by resources, compelling arguments, and the perseverance to navigate the journey.
In "car-dominated" countries like Germany, this isn't merely about maintaining prosperity—it's about safeguarding our environment for the well-being of future generations. Achieving this transformation requires us to rethink cars as possessions and reimagine them as mobility services. To me, this transformation represents a key milestone in our mobility paradigm. Consequently, think how areas once monopolised by parked cars could be reclaimed for residents' use. The primary challenge is aligning the automotive industry and political agendas to collaborate effectively, fully realising the value and benefits of this paradigm shift."
«We view rapid technological advancements as a golden opportunity for emissions-free transportation and more liveable cities.»
Thomas points to mounting evidence that cities where living areas have been reclaimed from cars and prioritized for residents, coupled with a culture of sustainability and connectivity, result in greater happiness. "Transitioning from car-centric urban planning is undoubtedly challenging, especially given the significant role cars play in modern lifestyles. Yet, if we are serious about creating smart, healthy, and enjoyable cities, our leaders need the courage to utilise political tools that incentivise human-centred mobility."
Ultimately, Thomas believes it all comes down to a profound economic choice: "Until we fully comprehend that e-mobility and mobility-as-a-service are the only viable alternatives and stop debating unfeasible solutions like e-fuels, we will waste more time while other regions of the world surge ahead in transforming their metropolises into truly intelligent living spaces. The road ahead is clear, and the time to act is now."