Securing the Competitiveness of the EU Automotive Industry: Technological Neutrality and Data Access in the Driver's Seat

This event, organised together with ZPP – Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers, will delve into the multifaceted challenges and strategic opportunities that define the future of the European automotive sector. At a time when the industry is navigating a complex landscape shaped by external competition, regulatory demands and the transition to climate-neutral technologies, this event will bring together key policymakers, industry leaders and experts to propose actionable solutions.

A central focus of the discussion will be the need to re-establish technological neutrality in EU policies. Current regulations, such as the 2035 ban on internal combustion engines (ICEs), have disproportionately favoured specific technologies, creating an uneven playing field. The roundtable will explore how restoring a level field for various technologies – ranging from ICEs powered by alternative fuels to electric and hybrid vehicles – can enhance innovation, consumer choice and cost-effectiveness while still achieving the EU’s ambitious decarbonization targets.

The Polish automotive sector, a vital player in the European supply chain, exemplifies the importance of maintaining technological neutrality. In 2023, the production value of automotive parts and accessories in Poland reached 27 billion EUR, reflecting a 9.3% year-over-year growth. This segment constitutes over 50% of Poland’s automotive production and employs approximately three-quarters of the sector’s workforce. With Poland ranking as the 7th largest exporter of automotive parts globally, its contribution to maintaining a balanced technological ecosystem cannot be overstated.

The event will also highlight the importance of addressing data access as a cornerstone for advancing research and innovation in areas like autonomous driving, vehicle safety, and industry competitiveness. Panellists will examine the need for sector-specific regulations on in-vehicle data, ensuring robust cybersecurity and promoting secure cross-border data exchanges to streamline development and deployment of cutting-edge automotive technologies.

Another vital area of discussion will be the role of infrastructure investment in supporting the shift towards sustainable mobility. Poland’s specialisation in producing key automotive components like batteries, powertrain elements and braking systems underscores its potential leadership in sustainable mobility solutions. However, the lack of adequate charging and refuelling networks, especially for heavy-duty vehicles, remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption of new technologies. Participants will discuss strategies for accelerating infrastructure deployment, leveraging public-private partnerships and ensuring equitable distribution across the EU.

Finally, the roundtable will address broader issues of supply chain resilience, including the diversification of critical raw material sources, fostering a circular economy, and countering unfair trade practices that disadvantage European manufacturers. For example, Polish firms exported automotive parts to 157 countries in 2023, demonstrating the importance of resilient and diversified supply chains for maintaining global integration and competitiveness. This event aims to outline a comprehensive strategy for securing the competitiveness of the EU automotive sector, ensuring it remains a driver of economic growth and a leader in sustainable transformation.