Modena, Italy | 28 May 2026
The TRACE project successfully participated in Motor Valley Fest 2026, one of Italy’s leading innovation events, showcasing its smart logistics technologies to a diverse audience of more than 40,000 visitors. The event, held in Modena, Italy, brought together citizens, students, researchers, industry representatives, innovators, and media, creating an ideal environment for demonstrating cutting-edge mobility and logistics solutions.
TRACE participated alongside the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (UNIMORE), the Municipality of Modena, and DIFLY, presenting live demonstrations of innovative technologies developed within the project. Visitors had the opportunity to explore a semi-autonomous cargo bike and advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technologies designed to support more efficient, intelligent, and sustainable urban logistics.
The live demonstrations attracted considerable attention throughout the event. In particular, the UAV prototype developed by DIFLY generated significant interest, prompting discussions on the practical deployment of drone technologies in urban environments, regulatory constraints, and future logistics applications. Visitors were eager to learn how TRACE addresses the challenges of integrating autonomous systems into real-world last-mile delivery operations.
The event also facilitated valuable exchanges with startups, researchers, and innovation stakeholders. Representatives from companies participating in the Motor Valley accelerator ecosystem expressed interest in topics such as wind flow analysis, simulation techniques, and advanced engineering approaches supporting autonomous aerial operations. The demonstrations also sparked conversations about research collaboration and career opportunities, with several attendees requesting further information about the technologies and organisations involved.
The presence of physical prototypes allowed visitors to engage directly with TRACE researchers and engineers, providing an accessible and interactive way to experience the project’s innovative solutions. The demonstrations highlighted how heterogeneous logistics systems—including autonomous cargo bikes, UAVs, and intelligent logistics technologies—can work together to improve the efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability of urban freight transport.
Participation in Motor Valley Fest significantly increased the visibility of TRACE among a broad international audience while strengthening connections between research, industry, public authorities, and the wider community. Promotional materials and project giveaways further enhanced public engagement, contributing to increased awareness of the project’s objectives and technological innovations.
TRACE thanks UNIMORE, DIFLY, the Municipality of Modena, and the organisers of Motor Valley Fest 2026 for providing an outstanding platform to present innovative research and engage with thousands of visitors interested in the future of smart and sustainable logistics.
