Skip to main content
European Commission logo
Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs

2ZERO Partnership - Horizon European Partnership

Initiative type
  • EU Funding Programmes
Target beneficiary
  • Consortia

2ZERO Partnership: co-programmed European Partnership under Horizon Europe that supports the transition to a zero-emission road transport system. Its Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) outlines key priorities across four pillars, with Pillar 1 focusing on vehicle technologies and propulsion solutions for BEVs and FCEVs. This includes the development of energy-efficient electric drivetrains, next-generation battery systems, and fuel cell technologies—critical for decarbonising transport and reducing emissions at the manufacturing level. By advancing these technologies, the partnership directly contributes to establishing a competitive, net-zero manufacturing base in Europe, while supporting the EU's climate neutrality and Green Deal goals.

Horizon Europe Partnerships

A key instrument within this framework is its European Partnerships, co-funded alliances that pool resources and strategic focus between the EU, EU countries, industry, and research entities. Following the adoption of the Horizon Europe strategic plan 2025-2027, 60 Partnerships have been identified, spanning mission-critical sectors like clean hydrogen, sustainable batteries, low-carbon steel, advanced manufacturing (Made in Europe), raw materials, and innovative materials—each guided by a Strategic Research & Innovation Agenda (SRIA) to ensure alignment with EU policy goals.

How to apply

Under Horizon Europe, European Partnerships are implemented in three ways: Institutionalised Partnerships (long-term collaborations requiring EU legislative action, such as Joint Undertakings and Article 185 initiatives), Co-funded Partnerships (joint research programs co-funded by the EU and public authorities), and Co-programmed Partnerships (collaborative research efforts structured through memoranda of understanding with industry associations). 

When it comes to the NZIA realm, relevant partnerships are co-programmed, co-funded or institutionalised ones. For co-programmed partnership, call topics are available through the Funding & Tenders Portal. Co-funded partnerships may involve joint calls for application. Institutionalised partnerships publish their calls for proposals in the relevant webpage of the partnership.