Car sharing with electric cars: economical and sustainable!

In his bachelor's thesis, Niederwimmer analyzed the introduction of a car-sharing pool consisting exclusively of electric vehicles for sales employees. The focus was on a comprehensive evaluation of the economic aspects using the total cost of ownership (TCO) method. In addition to the potential CO₂ savings in the fleet, the comparison of the drive types - electric, hybrid, petrol and diesel vehicles - showed a clear economic potential in favor of electric vehicles. His work entitled “Total cost of ownership of an electric vehicle pool for sales employees” impressed the jury with its scientific excellence and practical relevance.

Electric cars are the future - economically and sustainably

“The results show that electromobility is the best solution in many areas of application, not only ecologically but also economically. I am delighted to receive this award, which shows that logistics can not only optimize supply chains, but also contribute to the energy and mobility transition,” explains Niederwimmer.

The Young Energy Researchers Award is presented annually by the Upper Austrian Energy Saving Association in cooperation with the Cleantech Cluster and the province of Upper Austria. The award recognizes outstanding work by young talents from Upper Austria on topics relating to the energy transition, renewable energies, energy efficiency and e-mobility.

The logistics degree programs at the FH Upper Austria Campus Steyr offer students a future-oriented education that combines economic and technological know-how with sustainable solutions. The degree program trains experts in sustainable and efficient material and goods flows. With a focus on environmental protection and economic efficiency, logisticians shape global supply chains and actively contribute to a lower-emission future. From autumn 2025, the Bachelor's degree course in International Logistics Management will also be offered in English in order to better meet global requirements. “Niederwimmer's success shows how practical research at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria can provide innovative answers to current challenges,” says Oliver Schauer, head of the degree program, who is delighted with the success of the FH Upper Austria graduate. 

Matthäus Niederwimmer on his Master's degree in Logistics, which he has just successfully completed: “The Supply Chain Management degree program at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria in Steyr is an outstanding choice for a future-oriented career. As the best logistics master's program in the German-speaking world according to the CHE ranking, it offers a unique combination of practical relevance and research excellence. The intensive networking with over 500 companies through the VNL network and the integration of the course into the Logistikum - Austria's largest research center for logistics - guarantee state-of-the-art knowledge. Particularly valuable is the holistic approach of the degree program, which optimally prepares students for current challenges such as the European Green Deal, supply chain sustainability and digital transformation. The flexible study options, especially part-time, allow for an ideal compatibility with professional development. The excellent organization of the course, the personal support and the wide range of additional offers have made the course very effective and goal-oriented. The top positions in national and international rankings as well as the strong practical orientation underline the high quality of the program.”