The European conference for mobility innovations, Drive Forward 2025, took place on April 8 and 9 at the Automotive Campus in Helmond. The event attracted a large number of visitors and served as a platform for the latest developments in digitalisation and decarbonisation within the automotive industry.
Over the course of the two-day event, digitalisation and decarbonisation were the central themes. On Tuesday, topics such as artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, and cybersecurity were discussed, with contributions from organisations including NXP, RISE, and ERTICO. The day also marked the official opening of TNO’s new mobility research centre, MARQ. Wednesday focused on the road to zero emissions, featuring speakers from DAF and Milence, who addressed electrification, hydrogen, and charging infrastructure. Each day drew around 700 visitors and over 30 exhibitors, showcasing innovative vehicles and sustainable technologies through live demonstrations.
Focus on Competitiveness
The overarching theme throughout the event was the competitiveness of the European and Dutch automotive and mobility industries.
Pim Grol, Director of RAI Automotive Industry NL, stated:
“The European mobility sector is under significant pressure. Companies are in the midst of major transitions due to digitalisation and sustainability demands, all while geopolitical instability adds further uncertainty. Drive Forward offered participants a clear picture of these challenges – and of potential solutions. Insights came not only from industry leaders, but also from umbrella organisations such as CLEPA and ACEA, as well as national and European policymakers. Just as important: it was a great opportunity to share knowledge and make valuable new connections.”
The Power of Collaboration
Sacha Bloemhoff, Director of the Automotive Campus, reflected:
“Drive Forward 2025 provided attendees with valuable insights into the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities in mobility, digitalisation, and the low-carbon economy — all in a short amount of time. It strengthened existing ties and sparked new connections. The event served as a platform to explore opportunities and enhance strategic collaboration. By not shying away from the tough questions and pushing boundaries, innovative solutions emerged. What I especially appreciated were the open conversations about areas where challenges still remain. By bringing together companies, policymakers, researchers, and educators here on our campus, we saw fresh perspectives, cross-sector collaboration, and tangible progress.”
The live demonstrations held on campus brought these developments to life, offering a broad perspective through practical, real-world examples.
In short: innovation in mobility requires systemic change. Everyone was invited out of their own comfort zone and into a broader context — what is needed at the system level, what needs to change collectively, and what role each individual or organisation can play.
“My compliments to RAI Automotive Industry NL, Brainport, and all the speakers for designing a programme that gave the audience this broader perspective.”
Drive Forward 2025 – Organisers and Future Edition
Drive Forward 2025 was organised through a collaboration between Brainport Development, RAI Vereniging & RAI Automotive Industry NL, TNO, the Municipality of Helmond, the Province of North Brabant, Convention Bureau Brainport Eindhoven, and the Automotive Campus. The event brought together European visionaries, industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers to explore and advance the future of mobility.
The next edition of Drive Forward will take place in April 2027.
Replays Available via Podcast
Recordings from both days are available via the AutoRAI Podcast, featuring several keynote speakers from the event. Listen to the episodes through the links below:
Episode on Digitalisation (in NL)
Episode on Decarbonisation (in NL)
