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Drive Forward 2025
The European Conference on Innovations in Automotive Mobility took place on:
April 8 – 9 2025
Automotive Campus Helmond | Brainport Eindhoven, The Netherlands
ProgramDrive Forward, formerly known as Automotive Week, is a (inter)national multi-day conference focused on innovations in automotive mobility.
in 2025 it took place from April 8th to 9th, at the Automotive Campus Helmond in the heart of Brainport Eindhoven, this biennial event showcased cutting-edge advancements that ensure Europe’s leadership in the automotive industry.
Some of our speakers
Roel Vissers, Milence
CCO
Harald Seidel, DAF Trucks
President & CEO
European visionaries, industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers provided a unique opportunity to explore the future of mobility through:
Presentations by top international experts.
Interactive panels on critical topics.
Deep dives into the latest developments and trends.
Live demonstrations showcasing innovation in action.
Together, we’ll shape a smarter, safer, and more sustainable automotive future!
1.000+
visitors
30+
exhibitors*
14
live demonstrations
Focus areas
Drive Forward 2025 centered on two transformative themes:
Decarbonization:
Exploring electrification, hydrogen solutions, shared mobility, and renewable energy.Digitalization:
Diving into connected vehicles, autonomous driving, ICT integration, digital services and policy.
Key topics included:
Digitalization & Autonomous Driving
Electrification & Hydrogen
Charging Infrastructure
Logistics, ICT, and Applications
Policies and EU regulations
Latest news
The Future of the European Automotive Industry
A significant component of the event delved into strategies to ensure the automotive sector remains competitive on a global scale. During various discussions we explored how emerging technologies, such as AI and automation, can revolutionize operations, while addressing climate imperatives through cleaner energy solutions.
The program has also emphasized fostering workforce adaptability and modernizing regulations to meet the industry’s evolving needs. Strengthening economic resilience and fostering innovation throughout the value chain featured prominently, providing actionable insights for attendees.
The event brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including industry leaders, infrastructure experts, EU policy makers, and innovators from across the European automotive ecosystem.
What did it look like?
Drive Forward 2025 was built on 10 principles shaping the program and guiding speaker and demo selection:
Contribution to the Mobility Transition and Livability of Cities
Promoting advancements that enhance urban living and mobility.
Smart, Safe, Sustainable Mobility
Emphasizing intelligent, secure, and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.
Demo-Driven Programming and Applied Technology: See, feel, experience
Experience innovation through practical demonstrations.
Knowledge Development and Interaction
Expand your knowledge and interact with other professionals.
Systems Approach in Mobility
Applying systems engineering principles to enhance mobility solutions.
(Inter)national Profiling
Engaging an international audience and showcasing global perspectives.
Next Generation Focus - Talent
Highlighting and nurturing the next generation of mobility experts.
Networking Platform
Providing a robust platform for professionals to connect and collaborate.
Integrated Approach and Practical Character
Focusing on holistic, practical solutions to mobility challenges.
Why Drive Forward?
In a rapidly evolving world, addressing societal and environmental challenges is imperative. Drive Forward is committed to accelerating smart, safe, and sustainable mobility, while enhancing urban livability and fostering international collaborations.
Why should you attend our next edition in 2027?
Experience innovation: Immerse yourself in live demonstrations and real-world applications.
Build connections: Network with European leaders in automotive and mobility industries.
Shape the future: Contribute to meaningful discussions on Europe’s role in global mobility.
Location: Automotive Campus Helmond
Situated in the heart of Brainport Eindhoven, the Automotive Campus Helmond is a hub of research, innovation, and high-tech manufacturing. It’s the perfect setting to explore the latest advancements in mobility.
On behalf of the steering committee,
Naomie Verstraeten & Emiel Kuijpers
Brainport Development
Albie van Buel & Bram Hendrix
RAI Automotive Industry NL
Cuno Groenewoud & Ingeborg Bosch
Convention Bureau Brainport Eindhoven
Become a partner!
Be part of Drive Forward? Find out about opportunities as an exhibitor and sponsor.
Partnerships*based on the numbers of the last edition (Automotive Week 2023).
Interested? Stay tuned!