- News
- 25/09/2026
TU/ecomotive is a team of students from TU/e dedicated to sustainable mobility. With concept car VENTRA, they aim to raise awareness of the dangers of particulate matter and inspire the industry to adopt new solutions.
During the EV Experience in Zandvoort, the students will present VENTRA to the public.
Wear
Starting in November, the new European Euro 7 emissions regulations will take effect. For the first time, these regulations will not only set requirements for exhaust emissions but also for particulate matter resulting from brake and tire wear.
Particulate matter increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke and can interfere with lung development. Reducing particulate matter in the air lowers these health risks.
Electrostatic
The concept car captures particulate matter using electrostatic technology. The technology gives the particles an electrical charge, causing them to be attracted to a grounded collection surface, where they ‘stick’.
The system works without a physical filter and can be cleaned with water or a vacuum cleaner. The captured particles can also be reused. The student team, for example, incorporated the particles into the car’s interior.
At speeds between 50 and 80 kilometers per hour, approximately one-quarter of the particulate matter from the tires is directed toward the collection system. At lower speeds, this can increase to 42 percent.
1,000 kilos lighter
VENTRA weighs 790 kilograms, around 1,000 kilograms less than the average weight of an electric passenger car. This is due to the innovative material used for the chassis: thermoplastic composite reinforced with carbon fiber. The lower weight puts less pressure on the tires, causing less wear and reducing the amount of particulate matter they release.
The car also features a so-called Clean Drive system, which the team says further reduces tire wear. While driving, the system gives the driver tips on driving smoothly and evenly, for example by accelerating gradually and braking more gently.
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