High-tech manufacturing techniques, renewable bio-circular economy materials, and electric mobility products that add value to responsible tourism and enhance the attractiveness of the region are significant opportunities to increase innovation, promote new businesses, and create employment in the South Savo region. In addition to tourism, green technology electric vehicles can contribute to low-carbon urban mobility. Innovative product demonstrations, based on collaboration between the region's high-level research and business expertise, business analyses conducted on the basis of the demonstrations, and the training of young professionals in 3D printing technologies and the possibilities of renewable materials, also promote new entrepreneurship and the modernization of industries in the region seeking alternative economic activities to peat production. Applications of wood and circular economy-based output materials strengthen the region's leadership in international marketing when these products are utilized in the region's tourism industry. In the AM-MOVE project, 1-2 person vehicles are being innovated, which are produced using low-carbon production methods and bio-circular economy materials, with low carbon footprint during their use. 3D printing offers the possibility to manufacture customized parts and components for these vehicles. This leads to lighter and more efficient structures, which in turn reduces fuel consumption and emissions. Alternative energy sources such as electricity, which can be generated, for example, by integrated solar panels in the vehicle, are used as green fuels in these vehicles. Environmentally friendly solutions are being sought for energy storage, such as developing bio-batteries that replace graphite with lignin, which is available as a by-product of the forest industry. Material development is an essential part of the transition towards carbon-neutral vehicles. For example, vehicles designed for tourism would be designed to offer comfort, energy efficiency, and new experiences. The product demonstrations are ideated and selected in joint innovation sessions involving research and business experts, within the framework of the objectives, planning, and constraints of the project's design and product development. During the project, 8-10 different level product demonstrations will be produced, and they form the basis for identifying new regional business opportunities. The project includes the manufacturing and testing of prototypes in practical conditions. The project's flexible approach provides an opportunity to experiment and explore various applications and ideas for 3D printing to support the competitiveness of the local business network and new product innovations. The result of the project will be the generation of ideas and concepts that can be tested and evaluated for their business potential. The project analyzes the business potential of new product innovations and develops a strategy for utilizing the project's results. Collaboration with stakeholders from various fields is crucial to ensure that the developed products meet user needs and expectations. As a result of the project, prototypes of ecological vehicles will be developed. Bio-based materials will be tested and used in relevant parts of the vehicle prototypes. The developed vehicles enable local tourism operators to offer new services and experiences. The project aims to create alternative jobs in the bio-based product and technology cluster as well as in the tourism sector. Youth employment is promoted through innovative solutions. Additionally, a new application window is opened for wood and other bio-based materials, and the region's expertise in utilizing high-value wood fiber, lignin, and bio-circular economy materials is strengthened.
