Wissmann

IAA Has Exceeded Our Expectations

HANOVER, Germany, September 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --

Statement delivered by Matthias Wissmann, President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), at the final IAA press conference on Thursday, September 29, 2016, 12.30 h, Convention Center, Hannover exhibition grounds 

World's leading trade show even more international - more visitors despite fewer days - 332 world premieres - digitization, electric mobility and urban logistics are megatrends 

The slogan of this IAA - "Driven by ideas" - is really being put into practice at this, the world's most important trade show for transport, logistics and mobility. This IAA is characterized by a unique dynamism and looks a long way ahead. Here in Hannover the future is becoming visible reality. The entire commercial vehicle industry displays to the IAA visitors its drive for innovation, its creativity, and its pioneering spirit. These qualities are embodied by the 332 world premieres and over 100 European premieres. The IAA is even more the trade show of the decision-makers, and it is more international than ever.

Three major topics have dominated this IAA: electric mobility, digitization and urban logistics.

Electric mobility: Practically all the manufacturers of city buses and vans have models with electric and hybrid drive in their portfolios. Some of these vehicles are already on the roads, and many more will appear in the near future. This means that in towns and cities more and more zero emissions mobility will be possible, and buses and vans will be as quiet as a whisper. In the medium term this will also apply to heavy trucks in local distribution. This will bring a new quality of life to our urban spaces.

Digitization: This is the strongest and most comprehensive driver of innovation. Connectivity and automation in commercial vehicles go far beyond the assistance systems we have seen to date.

Here is just one example: trucks that are electronically networked and digitally connected on freeways and other long-distance roads - which we call platooning - can markedly reduce their fuel consumption and their CO₂ emissions. At the same time, platooning enhances safety as there is no "moment of shock" any more and the connected electronic systems react immediately. For long-distance truck drivers connectivity has the added advantage that it enables them to "digitally reserve" a free parking space.