The automotive industry in the West Midlands is being invited to
make a contribution towards European policies next year.
A European Automotive Strategy Network (EASN) Conference,
organised by Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCI),
will debate future trends, direction and challenges for the sector
on January 28 and 29 2010.
Speakers from leading European automotive organisations will
outline how technology and low carbon manufacturing challenges will
influence the shape of future supply chains and how this will
impact on the competitiveness and sustainability of EU regions,
including the West Midlands.
From a production of 69 million units in 2007, automotive
manufacturing has dropped to a forecast of 55 million this year.
Kishor Pala, EASN Development manager at the BCI, said: "This could
mean the loss of some European manufacturing plants and their
supply companies.
"The recession and the recent climate change negotiations in
Copenhagen will have a major impact on the automotive sector. The
conference will provide a much-needed platform to discuss issues
such as energy storage solutions, mobility behaviour, increased
regulation, how to meet future skill needs and how to cater for the
increasing demand for cleaner and greener vehicles."
The conference, chaired by Malcolm Harbour, a Member of the
European Parliament, is one initiative within a £400,000
contract funded by Advantage West Midlands and managed by BCI to
research the challenges facing the automotive sector.
Further information can be obtained from Kishor Pala at the
Chamber on email kpala@easn.eu