Manuel Spörr, master's graduate in Industrial Engineering & Management, was awarded the LIST Prize 2026. The prize, worth 5,000 euros, recognizes theses and research projects that make a forward-looking contribution to solving urban traffic and parking problems. The jury thus honors his outstanding achievements and his significant contribution to scientific advancement with an international focus.
Manuel gives us an introduction to his master’s thesis topic:
“As part of my master’s thesis, I explored how charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in parking garages can be made more user-friendly, efficient, and sustainable. Under the title ‘From Gas Station to Charging Station: Infrastructure Models and Future Developments in Electric Mobility with a Focus on Parking Garages – A Comparison Between Austria and China’, the study examined which technological and organizational approaches can help improve the expansion of electric mobility in urban areas.
The starting point for this work was the observation that parking garages present unique challenges compared to traditional gas stations. Charging points are often difficult to locate, structural constraints limit the installation of additional infrastructure, and varying access systems and payment models complicate their use. In existing underground parking garages in particular, grid connection, fire safety, space availability, and user guidance present major hurdles. At the same time, parking garages offer great potential, as vehicles are often parked there for extended periods and charging processes can be easily integrated into daily mobility routines.
A key component of the master’s thesis was a field study in Shanghai. Various parking garages and charging stations were analyzed on site, documented through photographs, and compared with conditions in Austria. Conducting this field study presented several challenges. In addition to language and cultural barriers, it was also necessary to understand local usage habits, digital payment systems, and organizational processes. With the support of a Chinese-speaking guide, signage, app-based access systems, and informal conversations with local stakeholders could nevertheless be systematically incorporated into the analysis.
The results reveal significant differences between Austria and China. While Austria is characterized primarily by fragmented systems, technical retrofitting challenges, and inconsistent user experiences, China boasts a more digitally integrated and standardized charging infrastructure. Particularly notable features there include QR code-based access, transparent pricing systems, clear visual signage, and real-time digital information.
The study led to specific recommendations for action. These include improved standardization of access systems, clear signage, smart load management, early planning of charging infrastructure for new buildings, and user-oriented pricing and reservation models. The master’s thesis thus makes a practical contribution to the further development of urban charging infrastructure in Austria and demonstrates that technological innovation is only effective when it is consistently combined with user-friendliness, planning reliability, and organizational clarity.”
Wei Manske-Wang, Head of MCI China Center, congratulates: "This is an outstanding master's thesis with an international perspective and, at the same time, clear regional benefits. Particularly noteworthy were the independent on-site research conducted in Shanghai and the in-depth examination of China's urban EV charging infrastructure. For me, this award confirms once again just how much international expertise can enrich regional solutions. I am very pleased that these achievements have now been officially recognized. Congratulations to Manuel Spörr and the Department Industrial Engineering & Management!"
Prof. Gerhard Hillmer (l.) and Prof. Wei Manske-Wang (r.) with Manuel Spörr (m.) ©MCI/Aaron Heimerl
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