Generative AI for smarter CCAM: enhancing perception, decision-making, and validation (CCAM Partnership)

Overview

Funding for projects developing generative AI (GenAI) technologies to enhance perception, decision-making, and validation in Connected, Cooperative, and Automated Mobility (CCAM). Targets researchers, industry, and consortia advancing real-time, energy-efficient, and trustworthy AI solutions for Level 3 and 4 automated vehicles, particularly in urban environments.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., businesses, research institutions, public bodies) from eligible countries. Single applicants are not permitted.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €100,000,000
• Funding rate: Not specified (lump-sum funding model)
• Currency: EUR

What Is Funded

• Development of GenAI tools (e.g., LLMs, VLMs, VLAs) for robust environment perception, decision-making, and path planning in CCAM systems.
• Enhanced safety for Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) through improved behavior prediction and intention analysis.
• Scenario generation for virtual testing and validation, including cultural and infrastructure variability.
• Integration of GenAI into existing CCAM development, training, and validation frameworks.
• Collaboration with the European Software-defined Vehicle (SDV) initiative and alignment with the European Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Alliance (ECAVA).
• Tools for systemic applications (e.g., traffic management, remote control) and guidelines for ethical, transparent AI use.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 4–6 (validation in lab to relevant environment).

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-06-03
• Deadline: 2026-10-07

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Proposals must adhere to page limits and templates outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Post-Award Obligations

• Reporting on results to the European Partnership on CCAM for KPI monitoring.
• Coordination with the AI, Data and Robotics Association (ADRA) Partnership.
• Application of the European Common Evaluation Methodology (EU-CEM) for CCAM.
• Potential restrictions on ownership transfers or exclusive licensing of results for up to 4 years post-project.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS for satellite-based data if applicable.
• Lump-sum funding model applies; detailed budget tables required.
• Alignment with national initiatives and existing EU frameworks (e.g., AI Continent Action Plan) is encouraged.