EUCAR Perspective on the Future of Automotive R&I in Europe

The automotive industry is vital for the European economy, jobs, and growth, and it contributes approximately €1 trillion to the EU’s gross domestic product. Nevertheless, the industry is undergoing a drastic transformation, and the US and China are challenging European competitiveness. A sense of urgency exists to safeguard the sector and European prosperity while advancing our climate goals and broader societal objectives.

European technology sovereignty needs investments from the public and private actors to keep expertise in Europe and thus strengthen manufacturing, job security, and growth. The Union must put industrial needs and strategies at the centre of translating research and innovation into commercialisation. Investments are crucial to addressing societal challenges while enhancing the EU’s competitiveness and ensuring the quality of life.

As leading investors in research and innovation, the EUCAR members see 2025 as the year for bold actions to enhance EU competitiveness and bridge the innovation gap. We must accelerate innovation from applied research to scale-up, prioritise impact and facilitate large-scale innovation initiatives with substantial industrial participation and leadership.

The EUCAR members, therefore, commit to building the largest Public-Private R&I Initiative in the Automotive Industry to retain and regain EU competitiveness and close the innovation gap. This initiative will focus on impact, driving EU competitiveness while addressing societal challenges, benefiting users and society.

EUCAR Perspective on the Future of Automotive R&I in Europe pdf.