Information about the Electric Mobility Cluster
Collaboration for International Growth

The Electric Mobility Cluster of South Savo is a multi-level collaboration network that brings together local companies, research and educational institutions, public actors, end-users, as well as national and international partners. The cluster serves as a platform that unites expertise, resources, and business potential to develop and scale electric mobility solutions. It connects various organizations across the entire value chain related to electric mobility. The cluster includes both export-oriented international companies and local manufacturers, subcontractors, and service providers.

The cluster operates on a company-driven, agile, and lightly organized model, with practical coordination handled by the cluster manager. The manager ensures that goals are translated into concrete actions and that the cluster’s services meet the needs of its members.

At the heart of the cluster are active, growth-oriented companies supported through eight key service categories: internationalization, standards and common practices, financing and investment, international public procurement, expertise and resources, maintenance, legal services, and networking. The most successful clusters are built on regional strengths. The primary mission of the cluster is to support companies in accessing global markets and enhancing their competitiveness in an international business environment. The cluster offers its members networks, funding channels, visibility, and expert services that enable growth beyond Finland’s borders. South Savo’s unique features—such as clean nature, a strong tourism culture, and dispersed residential and recreational areas—provide an excellent environment for piloting and development. The cluster utilizes these regional strengths as references to validate and demonstrate the functionality and scalability of companies’ solutions for international markets. The cluster does not primarily focus on producing local mobility solutions but sees them as development platforms through which companies can refine their products for global markets.

Cluster objectives

• Promote electric mobility business, expertise, and visibility in South Savo.
  This includes, for example, launching new products and services to the market, increasing companies’ visibility at international industry events, and strengthening expertise through training and networking.
• Serve as a collaborative platform for companies to foster new innovations, services, and projects. Strengthen the region’s position as a pilot environment for electric mobility. The cluster creates conditions for companies to test and pilot their products in real use environments and organizes joint workshops for developing electric mobility solutions together.
• Build sustainable local, national, and international networks that support company growth and competitiveness. Promote concrete trials, products, and services related to the electric movement of people and goods. The cluster connects companies, educational institutions, and stakeholders to develop new products, services, and solutions in the electric mobility field. The unique conditions of South Savo serve as pilot environments.
• Act as a visible and recognized interface for regional expertise, solutions, and services both domestically and internationally.
  Bring companies together in joint EU projects and international networks. The cluster’s website, trade fair participation, and marketing campaigns consolidate companies’ offerings and make them easily discoverable—especially for international stakeholders.
  

Operating Principles of the Cluster

Business-Driven Approach:
At the core of the cluster are companies working in the field of electric mobility and transportation. These companies, together with the steering group, define the cluster’s development direction. The cluster evolves based on the needs and goals of the businesses involved. Companies are the heart of the cluster, and supporting their business development is its primary mission.

Internationalization and Growth:
All activities aim to help regional companies enter global markets. The cluster does not focus on local solutions as such, but rather on the international opportunities they create.

User-Centered Development:
Development is driven by concrete needs identified through pilots and test platforms. Local trials serve as springboards to larger markets.

Openness and Inclusiveness:
The cluster is open to new members and partners. Its operations are based on trust, collaboration, and mutual benefit.

Sustainability and Impact:
The cluster promotes ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable solutions that create long-term value for the region and its businesses.

Contact Information:
Marjo Niittuaho-Nastolin, Project Manager
Email: marjo.niittuaho-nastolin@mikseimikkeli.fi
Phone: +358 440 361 615
Join us and take the next step toward the future of electric mobility!