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François Roudier @ China Auto Forum 2024 : “The never-ending automotive revolution”
Distinguished Minister, officials, organizers, guests, member of the press.
Good morning, and thank you for being here today. As we stand at the crossroads of innovation and tradition, it is important to remember the incredible journey of the automobile and the constant revolution it represents. Over the next fifteen minutes, I will explore the three key themes that have driven, and will continue to drive, the automotive industry: the never-ending revolution of the automobile, the current dynamics involving manufacturers, governments, and customers, and the limitless potential for global expansion and technological advancement.
The History of an Endless Automotive Revolution
Since its birth at the end of the 19th century in Europe, the automobile has been a powerful agent of change, reshaping our world in profound ways. The very first automobiles were as revolutionary as our best computers today. These early vehicles transformed personal transportation from horse-drawn carriages to self-propelled machines, paving the way for the modern society we live in.
Consider the manufacturing evolution in America and Europe, which brought affordable cars to the masses, to the sleek, efficient, and connected electric vehicles of today. Each era in automotive history is marked by breakthroughs that have continually pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. The introduction of car assembly line production not only revolutionized car manufacturing but also set the stage for the mass production of goods worldwide. We were key to the second industrial revolution.
In recent years, the pace of change has accelerated exponentially. The shift from internal combustion engines to electric and hybrid powertrains is another milestone in the ongoing revolution in the automotive sector. China and America have disrupted traditional paradigms, pushing the envelope with advancements in battery technology and software for autonomous driving capabilities that were once thought impossible. The automobile industry is not just evolving; it is undergoing a perpetual revolution, constantly reimagining itself.
The Dynamic Interplay of Industry Stakeholders: The Three Players
Today, we observe a remarkable phenomenon involving three players in the automotive industry: manufacturers, governments, and customers. Each of these stakeholders plays a crucial role in shaping the future of mobility.
Manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development, focusing on creating vehicles that are safer, more efficient, and more connected. Companies are leading the charge in developing electric and autonomous vehicles while also exploring alternative fuels such as hydrogen. This relentless drive for innovation is not just about keeping up with the competition; it’s about staying ahead in a rapidly changing landscape. It requires significant investments, and like in a big poker competition, only a few will remain in the game until dawn. In a revolution, some are rising, and some are falling.
Governments worldwide are also key players in this dynamic interplay, accelerating change since the beginning of the 21st century. Through regulations and incentives, they are steering the industry towards a more sustainable future. It is impressive for me to be here, in Shanghai, where President Xi Jinping, ten years ago, launched China’s ambitious plans for electric vehicles that have reshaped the industry’s trajectory. We are fortunate to have an industry that garners political interest, ensuring policies that drive innovation and widely distribute the benefits of new technologies.
Customers are more discerning and demanding than ever. Some seek vehicles that align with their values, whether it’s reducing their carbon footprint or having the latest national technology at their fingertips. Others reflect a shift in consumer preferences, with a growing emphasis on mobility as a service rather than traditional car ownership. This change in consumer behavior is forcing automakers to rethink their business models and innovate continually. Understanding the needs of customers is critical to the success of governments and manufacturers plans for the automotive industry.
The Boundless Future of Global Expansion and Innovation
There is no logical reason why the automotive industry shouldn’t continue its global expansion, reaching more people and utilizing new technologies. The last decade has seen America with Tesla, coming from nowhere, outselling many famous brands ; we have seen China emerge as the formidable player in the global automotive arena ; we have seen Europe rushing to invest massively in new technologies.
Moreover, technological advancements worldwide are breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities for growth. The development of connected and autonomous vehicles promises to revolutionize transportation by improving safety, reducing congestion, and enhancing the overall driving experience. Technologies like 5G and Artificial Intelligence are enabling vehicles to communicate with each other and with infrastructure, paving the way for smarter cities and more efficient mobility solutions.
As we look to the future, the potential for further innovation seems limitless. The integration of renewable energy sources, the advancement of autonomous driving, and the continuous improvement in battery technology are just a few areas where we can expect groundbreaking developments. The automotive industry will continue to evolve, driven by the relentless pursuit of excellence by manufacturers, the guiding hand of government policies, and the challenging needs of consumers.
Conclusion
The great history of the automobile is one of constant revolution. From its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to the cutting-edge technologies of today, the automotive industry has never ceased to innovate. Our engineers are breaking the rules of physics where no one thought it was possible, and our sales and financial teams are always advancing the best practices to satisfy the customers. All of this drives us towards a future of global expansion and unparalleled technological advancements.
As we move forward, let us embrace the changes and challenges that lie ahead, confident in the knowledge that we will continue to revolutionize the world in ways we can only begin to imagine.
And when people ask me, “Where are the brakes for the automotive industry?” I always answer, “I don’t know, I’ve never used them!”.
Thank you for your attention.
Please download the document: Francois Roudier @ China Auto Forum 2024 “The never-ending automotive revolution“
François Roudier appointed Secretary General of OICA and Olivier Fontaine, Technical Director
Paris, France – May 13, 2024 – OICA – the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers – is pleased to announce the appointment of François Roudier as its new Secretary General, effective June 1, 2024. François Roudier will succeed Yves van der Straaten, who will retire on July 1 after more than 25 years of exemplary service to OICA and the global automotive industry as secretary general and technical director, following almost 15 years at GM.
In conjunction with this appointment, OICA has also announced the appointment of Olivier Fontaine as Technical Director, effective July 1, 2024. This separation of the roles of Secretary General and Technical Director will allow for greater focus on both technical expertise and communications.
John Bozzella, President and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation and President of OICA, emphasized the importance of these appointments:
“OICA was founded at the dawn of the automotive era. Today, we work with the United Nations, policymakers, scientists, engineers and civil society to improve global road safety and environmental standards and harmonize vehicle regulations so all countries – and all people – have access to the safest and most innovative transportation options.”
Bozzella added: “These are exciting new additions to OICA. François brings more than 30 years of experience in technical and corporate communications and already made significant contributions to the automotive industry while at the French Automobile Manufacturers Association (CCFA) and later at the French Automotive Industry Association (PFA). His understanding of the global automotive landscape and Olivier’s regulatory experience will be a formidable new leadership team and lead OICA into the future.”
François Roudier expressed his enthusiasm about joining OICA: “I am deeply honored to take on the role of Secretary General at OICA, an organization that supports the global automotive industry. I look forward to working with our members to address their rapidly evolving challenges. I look forward to championing the interests of the world’s automotive trade associations and contributing to the sustainable growth of our industry.
François Roudier (59), a French citizen, has a career that demonstrates a strong commitment to the advancement of automotive technology, economics, and mobility. He has extensive communications experience and is a regular contributor to print and broadcast media. He holds a PhD in history from the University of Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne. Before joining the CCFA in 2008, he began his career in the aerospace and defense industry with the SAFRAN Group and the Paris Airshow.
Olivier Fontaine (57), a Belgian citizen, joined OICA in 2000 after a career with General Motors Europe in Brussels and in Belgian and French industry. He holds a degree in Industrial Engineering in Electromechanics – ECAM (Brussels). He is an expert in international regulations on vehicle construction (EU, UN, US…).
About OICA
The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA), based in Paris, France, was founded in 1919. OICA’s membership consists of 35 national trade associations around the world. Twenty of these associations represent the major automotive manufacturing countries in Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. They are committed to technological innovation in safety, environment, fuel efficiency and electrification, and seek global harmonization of safety and environmental standards for the benefit of all countries. OICA plays a central role in global automotive regulation and is the only automotive organization recognized for this purpose by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). https://www.oica.net/
For more information:
Jocelyne Nziendolo
OICA – International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers
4 rue de Berri – 75008 Paris – France | T: +33 1 43 59 00 13 – E: jnziendolo@oica.net
Global EV Goals Need Ambitious Public Policies By John Bozzella
Leaders from around the world are in Dubai for the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference – also known as COP28.
With decarbonization at the top of the global climate agenda, now is a good time for a progress report on zero carbon personal mobility.
The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) gathered recently in São Paulo, Brazil to assess the state of automotive decarbonization.
OICA represents 36 automotive trade associations – including major auto manufacturing countries in Europe, the Americas and Asia.
Every representative at our general assembly meeting – no matter the country, region, geography or economic circumstances – is committed to decarbonizing road transport.
But… every representative in Brazil also expressed concern about a growing gap between government regulation and the reality of decarbonization and automotive electrification. In other words, it’s a recurring theme and on the minds of automakers all over the world.
So where are we?
On the good news front: there are now 26 million electric vehicles on the world’s roads – a five-fold increase since 2018.
And the global auto industry has made a $1 trillion commitment toward carbon neutrality.
That’s positive.
At the same time, countries around the world have established ambitious electrification regimes to achieve zero carbon personal mobility.
That’s where we all get concerned.
The shift to electric vehicles requires nothing short of a complete transformation of the global automotive industrial base and a reimagination of auto markets around the world.
And that’s going to take some time.
EVs represent just a fraction of the more than 1.4 billion vehicles on the world’s roads. And it varies (substantially) in every country.
I’m confident automakers can produce cutting edge zero emission vehicles. We already are. Take a look at some of the electric models for sale today. You won’t be disappointed.
But the big challenges we face as automakers are outside the control of the industry.
Like what?
Public charging infrastructure
It’s estimated that a $300 billion infrastructure investment would be required by 2030 to support projected growth in the world’s EV fleet.
Electric recharging infrastructure along public roads today is insufficient. In fact, the gap between the number of EVs on the world’s roads and the number of needed recharging stations is increasing in most markets.
Electric power generation
There must be enough electric power generation to accommodate millions of additional EVs. New sources of power generation are needed, and policymakers need to urgently upgrade electric grid infrastructure while transitioning to clean and renewable sources of energy.
Critical mineral supply chains
Wider adoption of EVs around the world requires a massive increase in the identification and responsible extraction of resources critical to the battery supply chain, as well as battery end-of-life policies that minimize environmental harm.
So what’s the solution?
Public policy must be part of the conversation at COP28 and in every country committed to electrification.
We need an active partnership with government policymakers to bring down the barriers preventing EV adoption.
There will be different solutions and different paths in different markets, but my message to policymakers at COP28 and around the world:
When you set these ambitious electrification goals, you must make a real (and honest) appraisal of the EV market and external conditions in your own country.
Ask yourself: is there enough public charging infrastructure?
Sufficient electric grid and power capacity?
Are there reliable global supply chains for critical minerals and raw materials for EV batteries?
Are you addressing affordability?
Those challenges (again, automakers can make these vehicles) are more evident than even last year. The factors outside the vehicle are getting worse – not better.
Finally, there’s no “one size fits all” approach to this unprecedented shift. Each market faces different challenges and policymakers should aim for solutions that account for the economic, geographic and cultural realities in their own country.
Policymakers can’t assume everything will go ‘perfectly’ in the EV transformation between now and the end of the decade. It will be bumpy.
But the future is electric. This will happen.
The auto industry and policymakers – together – need to have a shared – and realistic – vision of success when it comes to automotive electrification.
An approach that balances carbon reduction and protects the global industrial base that supports economies and social mobility around the world.
There is too much at stake to set the course on hope.
John Bozzella is the president of Paris-based OICA and the president and CEO of Washington, DC-based Alliance for Automotive Innovation.
OICA’s global decarbonization framework is available HERE.
About OICA
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and currently gathers 36 trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests of the global auto industry in international institutions and organizations.
What activities have the motor vehicle manufacturers taken to safeguard the minimum safety requirements for vehicles globally?
Intervention by Y. van der Straaten, OICA secretary general, at the 24 November 2023 United Nations World Sustainable Transport Day
Road safety is an interaction of various factors, and the safety design of the vehicles is only a small part of this equation.
Manufacturers are responsible for their vehicles. Manufacturers are men and women who develop, produce and sell vehicles for other men and women, and they want the product of their work to be safe.
Modern vehicles in developed markets are now much safer than before. But not all vehicles in the world are up to these high safety levels. Some designs, still offered for sale, may be outdated, and should be improved wherever possible. But we need an approach that applies to ALL actors, an approach that is controllable, that is practical, that is fair, and that is based on experience.
In the recent past, some appeals were made for a voluntary commitment by manufacturers to sell, all over the world, only vehicles meeting high, sometimes even very high safety standards. Such initiative has merit and can indeed push some individual manufacturers when needed; however, there are some facts to be considered. The auto industry is extremely competitive, with a very large number of players. It would therefore be virtually impossible to guarantee that such global commitment is respected by all manufacturers and their almost 100 million cars and trucks produced every year. Secondly and even more important, the main road safety problem is in low-income countries. Not considering affordability will therefore be counterproductive if consumers are in effect forced to keep their old and usually very poorly maintained vehicles longer than they should.
The solution that the auto industry proposes is based on the experience gained in most well-developed markets. Over the last decades, we have seen that vehicle legislation has dramatically improved vehicle safety.
At OICA, representing the global auto industry, we believe that the most efficient and pragmatic way to obtain, where needed, improvements also in low- and middle-income countries, is to put in place minimum legal requirements. These requirements should be based on the international experience of the UN 58 and 98 Agreements, or other well established equivalent alternatives.
This approach has multiple advantages. It creates a level playing field, because legal requirements equally apply to all, without exception. It can be controlled efficiently and put in place relatively easily.
The manifesto that OICA published in 2019 and updated in 2022 contains a list of proposed requirements for countries with inadequate or even non-existing legislation. It can be a useful tool for governments to control the safety of vehicles sold on their markets.
At OICA, we are convinced that this approach, based on regulation, will ensure that all vehicles sold in the various countries worldwide are tailored to the reality of their respective markets and needs. It is a pragmatic approach to offer safe, affordable, and sustainable mobility to all social classes.
Mobility is a key parameter of social well-being and of economic progress and cannot be limited to the “happy few”.
About OICA
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and currently gathers 35 trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, Africa and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests of the global auto industry in international institutions and organizations.
The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. OICA coordinates the global harmonization of vehicle regulations. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of Motor shows all over the world.
Contact: Yves van der Straaten
yvanderstraaten@oica.net
+33 (0)1 43 59 00 13
OICA Secretary General Position Description
Position: OICA Secretary General
Supervisor: OICA president
Status: Full Time
Location: Paris
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The Secretary General acts as the champion for OICA’s members, specifically as the voice of the global auto industry that drives economic progress. The Secretary General leads the management team and is responsible for the day-to-day management of all OICA secretariat activities, and, in consultation with the OICA President, the management of OICA’s membership. There are five main areas of responsibilities which are detailed below: International Technical Legislation, Communications and Marketing, Motor Show Management, Statistics and Data Management, and General Management.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Demonstrate extreme diplomacy as a global ambassador for the auto industry through engaging with global regulations and through the development of the secretariat. This includes:
- Serve as a dynamic ambassador for the global auto industry, foster positive relationships with external stakeholders, and enhance the industry’s reputation and promote its contributions by demonstrating the value OICA and its initiatives provide to both its members and society.
- Lead organization’s research agenda; develop and distribute position papers.
- Serve as organization spokesperson; respond to media inquiries, interview requests, draft and distribute communications with media and stakeholders.
- Represent OICA, including its positions at various international organizations (i.e. UNECE Inland Transport Committee, OECD, ITF Transport Forum, etc.).
- Build value through OICA accreditation by managing global motor shows for the Association. This includes:
- Maintenance of yearly motor show calendar.
- Gathering of info of various shows to include: date and place, visitors, exhibitors, etc., and publication on OICA web site.
- Secretariat of Exhibition and Selection Committees including but not limited to: preparation of agendas, running the meetings in coordination with the respective chairpersons, managing meeting minutes, and coordinating follow up actions.
- General Management of OICA’s day-to-day activities, to include:
- Development and follow-up of yearly budget.
- Review and processing of invoices, payment of salaries, and charges.
- Secretariat of OICA Council and General Assembly including preparation of agenda, working documents, meeting minutes, and follow up actions.
- Spearheading the international technical legislation for all vehicle categories. This includes but is not limited to:
- Managing all technical activities in coordination with the appropriate pilots and chairpersons.
- Follow-up and secretariat of OICA expert groups and of the OICA Technical Committee. This includes maintaining agendas, reports working documents, logistics, and studies.
- Representation of OICA at the UN Level in coordination with the appropriate chairpersons and pilots.
- Compiling and maintaining statistics, including a general overview of OICA data. This specifically includes study and verification of data provided by our members prior to publication.
- Providing general support to OICA’s members.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Passion for the global auto industry.
- Good knowledge of United Nations functions and how regulations are developed as well as the administrative procedures that are used to develop new requirements.
- A good understanding of the regulatory procedures in other regions, especially EU and the US.
- Knowledge of and experience working with international technical legislation of vehicles (regulations developed under the UNECE framework), including: safety, environmental, and security for both light and heavy.
- Experience in communications, political and administrative engineering.
ABOUT OICA
We are the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers and were founded in Paris in 1919. We are known as the “Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles”. Our members represent the global auto industry that drives economic progress and comprises 36 trade associations around the world. We conduct activities in the fields of technical affairs, communication, and industry statistics. Led by the Secretary General, the OICA team includes our Technical Director, two Deputy Technical Directors, and Administrative Support.
Interested in applying? Please send your application materials to: hr@autosinnovate.org
Download the position description
OICA Releases Global Decarbonization Framework
OICA Releases Global Decarbonization Framework
Technology neutral approach to achieve road transport decarbonization by 2050
Individual nations should have flexibility; adopt policies best suited to geographic, socioeconomic, cultural and geopolitical realities
Industrial and energy policies to ensure competitiveness of auto industry required
(Paris, France) – The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) today released Carbon Neutrality by 2050, a comprehensive framework of specific policy recommendations to support the decarbonization of road transport. The report comes as OICA members join global policymakers in Egypt for the United Nations climate change conference (COP27) dedicated to carbon neutrality.
Globally, the auto industry is investing hundreds of billions of dollars in technologies to support a cleaner transportation future. This includes advanced internal combustion engines and low-carbon liquid fuels to electrification and hydrogen fuel cell technology.
OICA President John Bozzella said: “Automakers in every corner of the world are committed to decarbonization of road transportation. Our report outlines a roadmap to achieve this shared goal that emphasizes flexibility for nations coupled with industrial and energy policies that promote automotive competitiveness. That’s a formula for a cleaner transportation future for all countries.”
The OICA framework recommends the adoption of a technology neutral approach to achieve decarbonization that provides individual nations with the flexibility to adopt technologies and policies that match their geographic, socioeconomic, cultural and geopolitical realities.
Regardless of technology, decarbonization on this timeframe also requires government and industry partnership and continued investment commitments from the entire road transport ecosystem.
OICA members ratified this framework last month at a meeting of its general assembly in Johannesburg, South Africa. The Carbon Neutrality by 2050 framework is available here.
About OICA
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and currently gathers 36 trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, Africa and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests of the global auto industry in international institutions and organizations.
The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. OICA coordinates the global harmonization of vehicle regulations. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of Motor shows all over the world.
Contact: Yves van der Straaten
yvanderstraaten@oica.net
+33 (0)1 43 59 00 13
OICA Position Paper on Carbon Neutrality by 2050
OICA Position Paper on Carbon Neutrality by 2050 NOV2022
Global Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Release New Road Safety Framework
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Global Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Release New Road Safety Framework Integrated approach to save lives and improve safety around the world Provisions on road safety, driver behavior, safer vehicles, modern infrastructure and law enforcement Globally, crashes kill more than 1.35 million and injure 50 million people annually 90 percent of road incidents occur in developing countries
PARIS, France – The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) today released its 2022 Global Road Safety Manifesto, a comprehensive plan to save lives and improve safety for road users around the world. The document is a follow up to OICA’s previous plan for global road safety requirements presented to the United Nations in 2019. The UN has identified 2021-2030 as the ‘Second Decade of Action for Road Safety,’ noting 1.35 million fatalities and 50 million injuries annually – 90 percent in developing counties. In addition to being tragic, this data represents a major public health and economic development challenge, “with broad social and economic consequences,” according to OICA’s framework. OICA President John Bozzella noted: “No matter where you live, every car driver, biker, motorcyclist and pedestrian should be able to travel safely. We all have a role to play to ensure the world’s roads are as safe as possible. Auto manufacturers working together with governments, the United Nations and civil society are committed to helping save lives and reduce injuries everywhere – and our new framework outlines a path forward to achieve these goals in the years ahead.” The global auto industry believes the most efficient way to ensure only safe vehicles enter the market is through legislation with well-defined minimum safety levels. This is a crucial element especially in countries where current legislation is inadequate or non-existent and is an approach supported by the UN’s Inland Transport Committee. This safety approach was successful in developed markets and should be replicated in developing countries as well. The OICA framework calls for the application of updates to specific safety rules for light vehicles (including antilock braking systems, electronic stability control, collision and tires standards, and installation of lighting among others) with detailed recommendations and accelerated timeframes for legislative implementation. Vehicle manufacturers around the globe are committed to reviewing with various authorities how to put in place this legislative framework to ensure only safe vehicles are put on the road. Read OICA’s 2022 Global Road Safety Manifesto HERE.
About OICA The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and currently gathers 36 trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests of the global auto industry in international institutions and organizations. The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. OICA coordinates the global harmonization of vehicle regulations. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of Motor shows all over the world. ### Contact: Yves van der Straaten |
OICA Announces Global Decarbonization Policy Framework
(Paris, France) – The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) today announced a global review of road transport decarbonization – reflecting a commitment by OICA’s members to develop specific policy recommendations to support broader efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.
OICA believes a broad look at all emission sources, including energy generation to build and power vehicles, is important to achieve the shared goal of decarbonization.
OICA President John Bozzella noted: “Electrification is the future of transportation and key to achieving carbon neutrality, but it is not a silver bullet for all nations. OICA represents auto production nations in all corners of the world and recognizes the importance of a technology neutral, multi-pronged policy approach to make progress on transportation decarbonization is required.”
OICA’s work will be guided by these principles:
Decarbonization of road transport should be flexible and structured to individual countries.
- Technology neutrality and multiple approaches are necessary to provide individual nations the required flexibility to account for variations in geography, socioeconomics, geopolitics and other factors.
Decarbonization of road transport requires government and industry participation as well as investment commitments from entire ecosystem.
- From shifts in power generation, investments in new charging or refueling infrastructure, and the evolution of the existing supply base, the collective success in decarbonizing road transport extends well beyond the automotive sector.
- To be successful, all sectors working on transportation – both public and private – must collaborate to establish sustainable pathways to carbon neutrality.
Bozzella, who also serves as the President and CEO of US – based Alliance for Automotive Innovation, added: “This doesn’t mean that every nation must – or should – adopt the same strategy for carbon neutrality. Instead, the global auto industry is committed to unique and customized solutions with workable policies necessary to achieve a cleaner future.”
About OICA:
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and currently gathers 36 trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, Africa and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests of the global auto industry in international institutions and organizations.
The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. OICA coordinates the global harmonization of vehicle regulations. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of Motor shows all over the world.
For further information, please contact: Yves van der Straaten, Secretary General, + 33 (0)1 43 59 00 13, yvanderstraaten@oica.net
John Bozzella elected President of the “world organization for the automotive industry” OICA
The 19 November 2021 annual OICA General Assembly, in Naples, Italy, elected Mr. John Bozzella, President of the United States-based Alliance for Automotive Innovation (Auto Innovators) as the new president of the world automotive industry association OICA (Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles – International Organisation of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers).
Mr. Bozzella succeeds Mr. Fu Binfeng, executive vice-chairman and secretary general of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM).
Mr. Bozzella thanked Mr. Fu for his leadership especially during the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis which took hold shortly after Mr. Fu’s election at the end of 2019. As is well known, the pandemic has caused severe disruptions in the industry’s global value chain.
Mr. Bozzella noted that “the auto industry continues to face serious challenges due to the shortages and price increases of raw materials and semi-conductors essential for auto manufacturing. This will become increasingly important to resolve as the technologies in hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as advanced safety technologies, require more semiconductors and other supply constrained materials.” Mr. Bozzella added, “As has always been the case, the innovative spirit of the vehicle industry and its dedicated workforce will be up to this challenge so that we can create a cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation future.”
2021’s General Assembly also included a round table to discuss several issues facing the global automobile industry and opportunities for leadership in areas such as climate change and CO2 reductions, which was especially timely following the COP 26 Conference of Parties in Glasgow. The round table included an exchange of views on the various political initiatives to ban the sale of internal combustion engines and to switch to fully electric vehicles. While OICA intends soon to publish a more complete position paper, the global auto industry remains firmly committed to reducing its CO2 emissions. As industry continues to innovate, OICA believes that there are multiple technology pathways to a net-zero carbon future. Accelerating the transition to electrification and low-carbon transport requires broad collaboration among all stakeholders across the private and public sectors to establish the critical measures for success including infrastructure, grid resiliency, supply chains and industrial transformation.
For further information: www.oica.net
Yves van der Straaten, Secretary General, + 33 (0)1 43 59 00 13, yvanderstraaten@oica.net
Global auto production in 2020 severely hit by COVID-19 crisis with a 16% drop in world auto production
After a bleak 2019, which already saw a marked decline of almost 5% in world auto production (down to less than 92.2 million cars, trucks and buses) and which ended 10 years of growth, the world auto industry faced a new, unprecedented challenge in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic. With shutdowns of a large part of the auto industry and its many suppliers around the world during several weeks, 2020 marked “the worst crisis ever to impact the automotive industry, a key sector of the world economy”, stated OICA’s president, Mr FU Bingfeng.
The collected data show a 16% decline of the 2020 production, to less than 78 million vehicles, which is equivalent to 2010’s sales levels. As noted by Mr Fu, “the 2020 results wipes off all the growth made over the last 10 years”.
Europe as a whole saw a drop of more than 21% on average. All main producing countries had sharp declines, ranging from 11% to almost 40%. Europe represented an almost 22% share of the global production.
In America, the 2020 production of 15,7 million units represented a 20% share of the global production. The NAFTA region saw production declining by more than 20%, with U.S. manufacturing declining by 19%. South America dropped by more than 30%, with Brazil down by almost 32%.
The African continent also declined sharply, by more than 35%.
Meanwhile Asia resisted reasonably well, with a decline of only 10%. In particular, China, which was hit hard in 2020’s first months, recovered very quickly; all in all, the Chinese reduction in production has been limited to only 2%. Asia remains by far the world’s largest producing region, with 57% share of global production.
OICA also compiles sales/registration figures in its member countries. The 2020 sales trend shows a similar decline, however limited to around 12%. President Fu noted with satisfaction that “the last few months of 2020 globally showed a gradual recovery to the levels of 2019, such that the final results are clearly better than the originally expected decline of 20% or more”. There are however marked differences, with sharp declines of more than 20% or even 30% in most major markets, except for China (-2%) and South Korea which increased by 6%; also the Turkish market performed extremely well, after 2 years of very strong declines in 2018 and 2019.
Mr Fu concluded that “demand for mobility for persons and goods is expected to remain high. But it is equally clear that the demand for mobility is not the same as in the past: the auto industry is facing up many challenges at the same time besides the need to recover economically, such as ever cleaner products and their production, ever safer vehicles, connectivity, automation, ….Vehicle manufacturers and their vast supplier networks are taking up all these challenges and will continue to shape the future of clean and sustainable mobility.”
Note: For 2020, not all truck data are available due to legal restrictions in some regions, although this information would not substantially change general trends
About OICA:
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and gathers 36 national trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests in international institutions and organizations.
The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of motor shows all over the world.
For further information: www.oica.net
Yves van der Straaten, Secretary General, + 33 (0)1 43 59 00 13, yvanderstraaten@oica.net
Road Safety – OICA reconfirms its commitment
The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) at its annual General Assembly held on 4 December 2020 and chaired by Mr. Fu of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers CAAM, agreed to continue pursuing advanced safety by working with its members locally, particularly in South East Asia, Latin America and Africa. The local efforts to make further progress in creating a more globally consistent legal framework for vehicle safety comes in addition to ongoing manufacturer-driven safety innovations. It also builds on OICA’s internationally recognized October 2019 manifesto, which was adopted to work with the United Nations’ second Decade of Action for Road Safety from 2021 to 2030.
This new, locally driven approach builds on the recognized work of OICA’s Special Envoy of Road Safety, Erik Jonnaert, who informed OICA’s General Assembly that substantial progress has been made in promoting a minimum legal framework for vehicle safety, based on existing UN technical regulations or their equivalent requirements.
“We welcome this progress and are committed to do more,” said Yves van der Straaten, OICA’s Secretary General. “Road safety is complex and addressing it requires an integrated approach addressing all parameters, particularly road user training and behavior, traffic rules and enforcement, and infrastructure.”
“Our industry’s most direct impact on safety can be in vehicle development and design,” added van der Straaten, who also urged governments to put in place the relevant legislation that automakers must meet or exceed and are based on established international standards.
OICA will continue working on road safety in the future through a network of regional road safety ambassadors across South East Asia, Latin America and Africa. We believe that this local approach will ensure that actions can be taken which better reflect and address the local road safety needs and are tailored to different markets. This builds on the work we have already been undertaking.”
OICA’s members from around the world applaud the efforts made in South East Asia by regulators together with the automotive industry where ASEAN has prioritized the implementation of several important UN technical regulations as from 2021, including requirements on braking systems and seat belts.
About OICA:
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and gathers 37 national trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests in international institutions and organizations.
The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. OICA coordinates the global harmonization of vehicle regulations. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of Motor shows all over the world.
For further information: www.oica.net
Yves van der Straaten, Secretary General, + 33 (0)1 43 59 00 13, yvanderstraaten@oica.net
World’s Auto Industry slowly but surely re-starting after severe hit by COVID 19 Crisis
The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) released sales/registration figures in the various countries represented in OICA for the first nine months of 2020 – see www.oica.net.
President Fu stressed that “for the first time of this extremely severe crisis year, the September figures exceed those of 2019. The cumulative data since January 2020 show that we are still more than 20% down compared to the same period of 2019, but the September data are encouraging”.
Mr Fu considered that “much more needs to be achieved before we can really talk of a recovery, but I note with satisfaction that several major markets experienced better sales figures, such as France, Germany, India, Italy, Korea, Norway, Russia, USA, ….”
China continued its growth, which started back in April already, after being severely impacted by the crisis very early this year.
Mr Fu concluded that “with the demand for mobility expected to continue to grow, the prospects for the auto industry remain good, in spite of the many challenges ahead, such as increased electrification, connectivity, and automation. In spite of the current crisis, vehicle manufacturers and their vast supplier networks will continue to shape the future of clean and sustainable mobility.”
About OICA:
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and gathers 37 national trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests in international institutions and organizations.
The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. OICA coordinates the global harmonization of vehicle regulations. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of Motor shows all over the world.
For further information: www.oica.net
Yves van der Straaten, Secretary General, yvanderstraaten@oica.net
World’s Auto Industry Provides First Global Perspective on COVID 19 Crisis
Three months after his first statements on the global Corona virus crisis, The International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) President Fu today released the organization’s analysis of the current situation. Mr. Fu stressed the efforts by all auto companies worldwide to help overcome the difficulties and risks facing employees and the general public. He stated that “While the situation is improving, or even seems well controlled in many countries, much remains to be done. Auto manufacturers continue actively supporting humanitarian relief efforts by producing critical medical support machines and providing transportation to emergency and medical services. The industry is engaging in several projects with various governments or humanitarian organisations to help communities cope with the Coronavirus.”
The industry has demonstrated its resilience in these difficult times and, even if enormous difficulties remain, vehicle manufacturers and their vast supplier networks have generally resumed work and production, thereby propelling the world economy’s restart. Looking within the industry, though, reveals that the actual auto industry recovery will take time. Many more months are likely needed to accurately determine the size and scope of the industry’s path to recovery.
Mr. Fu stressed that “At this critical moment, we must all work to turn the crisis into a new opportunity. We can seize this opportunity to work together and to foster a better ‘new normal’ going forward. We can already learn new lessons from the epidemic:
- The virus knows no borders. This crisis is global and therefore needs to be tackled globally. To overcome the epidemic, the industry as well as the authorities and the public need to work in unity and help one another. And to revitalize the industry and maintain global economic and social health, we all need to work together and strengthen cooperation more than ever. Such international cooperation is a key attribute of the automobile industry; strengthening the coordination and cooperation in the industrial chain between countries will no doubt help power the world recovery.
- Quality and safety remain among the auto industry’s key priorities. Manufacturers continue focusing on continuous improvements to the safety and environmental performance of modern vehicles, whether cars or trucks.
- The auto industry will continue to revitalise the world economy and help shape the future of mobility in our society.
- Work and production resumption is underway globally, but normal business operations are sometimes still difficult because of various measures. This includes border control and travel restrictions. Even though much employee travel has been replaced by digital communications, we call on relevant organisations to enhance the coordination in restoring international passenger and, especially, cargo flight capacity. This will help ensure the successful arrival of international employees and the in-time delivery of international goods.”
About OICA:
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and gathers 37 national trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests in international institutions and organizations.
The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. OICA coordinates the global harmonization of vehicle regulations. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of Motor shows all over the world.
For further information: www.oica.net
Yves van der Straaten, Secretary General, + 33 (0)1 43 59 00 13, yvanderstraaten@oica.net
Please download the press release
After 2019’s halt to 10 years of industry growth, the world auto industry faces a huge 2020 crisis, but will once again show its resilience.
After a bleak 2019, which saw a marked decline of more than 5% in world auto production (down to 91.8 million vehicles) and ended 10 years of continuous growth, the world auto industry faces a new, unprecedented challenge during 2020’s first months. The corona virus (COVID-19) began its spread just a few months ago, but already presents unprecedented challenges to one of the world’s largest industries. It may well be “the worst crisis ever to impact the automotive industry” as stated by many experts, including OICA’s president, Mr Fu Binfeng.
Initial impacts began in January, with the shutdown of the largest part of the Chinese industry in general, thereby also creating parts and components shortages impacting the industry in every corner of the world. The global spread of the virus over the last few weeks has now resulted in a shutdown of a large part of the auto industry and its many suppliers around the world.
Mr Fu stated: “Concerns for the health and safety of their employees led many manufacturers and suppliers worldwide to put in place drastic sanitary measures, leading to the strong reduction or even complete shut-down of many plants and facilities, even where it is not systematically recommended or required by the respective authorities”.
Through their national associations operating together within OICA, the world’s automotive manufacturers remain committed to protecting their employees and customers, and fully respect or even exceed government measures of restriction or confinement. In several countries, in order to help people affected by the COVID 19 virus, automakers are also establishing humanitarian projects, ranging from the production of breathing machines to the facilitation of transport of emergency and medical services.
OICA members continue working to secure the automotive sector as much as possible and are ready to begin the complex process of restarting production and sales when the crisis ends.
“The various national auto industry associations, members of OICA, are closely engaged in a constructive dialogue with their respective authorities and partners in order to soften the impact of this crisis and to ensure a swift recovery of the sector, which is a key contributor to the world economy and welfare. I have no doubt that the world auto industry, as it already did many times in the past, will prove its importance, its strength and its resilience”, concluded Mr Fu.
About OICA:
The world association OICA was founded in 1919 and gathers 37 national trade associations around the world, including all major automobile manufacturing countries in Europe, America, and Asia. OICA is the only non-governmental car and truck manufacturers’ organization accredited to the United Nations and represents the technical interests in international institutions and organizations.
The OICA activities contribute to the worldwide diffusion of technology, experience and know-how, to the benefit of all countries. OICA coordinates the global harmonization of vehicle regulations. The member countries are committed to the improvement of road safety and environmental protection, and they actively contribute to the global harmonization of technical regulations and standards. OICA also collects and publishes international statistics and coordinates the yearly calendar of Motor shows all over the world.
For further information: www.oica.net
Yves van der Straaten, Secretary General, yvanderstraaten@oica.net