April 19, 2024

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[THE INVESTOR] Top experts from Korea and the European Union discussed the future of automotive technologies at a forum organized by the European Chamber of Commerce in Korea on March 28 in Seoul.

The Korea-Europe Future Automotive Forum was co-hosted by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) and Korea Automobile Importers and Distributers Association.

 

ACEA Secretary-General Erik Jonnaert ECCK

In their welcoming remarks, ECCK Chairman Dimitris Psillakis and European Union Ambassador Michael Reiterer emphasized the close economic ties between Korea and Europe.

“With a long history of innovating together, the strategic partnership in automotive technologies is of great significance for both Korea and Europe,” said Psillaski.

“European Union is a larger trading partner for Korea than the United States,” Reiterer added.

Participants who shared their opinion about the future of automotive technologies included ACEA Secretary-General Erik Jonnaert, Daimler Senior Manager Sena Marek and Scania Asia & Oceania Manager Alexander Mastrovito.

The three main topics that were discussed were autonomous driving, connectivity and electric vehicles. Autonomous driving was especially the hot topic among participants, partially due to a recent self-driving car accident in Arizona which killed a woman.

“Following the accident in Arizona last week, everyone in the media was predicting the end of this emerging technology. But I can tell you that the answer is no, it is just the beginning,” Jonnaert said. He also said despite what happened, there still are commitments by investors to move forward.

Seoul National University professor Hong Seung-soo, who participated in the discussion during the forum, pointed out that under the current environment in Korea, which makes it hard for the firms to develop level 3 autonomous car due to regulations, it is difficult for the industry to grow further.

This forum symbolizes the efforts of ECCK to shed light on the industry trends and promote cooperation between Korean and European businesses. Based on the extensive information exchange at the event, the ECCK said it hopes to strengthen the level of cooperation and expand business and investment opportunities between both sides.

By Song Seung-hyun (ssh@heraldcorp.com)