Arcadis Director of Automotive, Natalie Sauber, joins Chris Kirby and Felix Page on episode 14 of the Autocar Business Change Makers Podcast to discuss the changes happening in the automotive industry. One of the topics they explore is the weeding out of faltering automotive start-ups. Sauber explains that while there has been a surge in new companies entering the market, not all of them will succeed. She attributes this to the high level of competition and the need for companies to differentiate themselves. This process of weeding out is natural for any industry and allows the strongest and most innovative companies to thrive.
Another topic of discussion is China’s domination of electric vehicle (EV) technology and manufacturing. Sauber acknowledges that China has made significant progress in this area and is currently the world leader in EV production. She attributes this to China’s strong government support and investment in EV infrastructure. However, she also notes that other countries, including the UK, are making strides in EV technology and manufacturing, and there is still room for competition.
The podcast hosts also ask about the hype around e-scooters and whether Europe is still the home of automotive innovation. Sauber explains that while e-scooters initially generated a lot of excitement, their adoption has been slower than anticipated due to regulatory challenges and safety concerns. As for Europe’s position as an innovation hub, Sauber believes that while Europe has a rich automotive history, other regions like Asia and North America are also driving innovation in the industry.
The conversation then turns to the future of the mobility industry. Sauber suggests that the traditional concept of mobility, where individuals own their vehicles, is evolving. She predicts that there will be a shift towards a more service-based model, where people have access to vehicles through subscriptions, rentals, and shared mobility platforms. Sauber believes that this shift is driven by changing consumer preferences and the need for more sustainable transportation options.
In conclusion, the Autocar Business Change Makers Podcast episode with Natalie Sauber provides valuable insights into the current state and future direction of the automotive industry. It highlights the challenges faced by start-ups, China’s dominance in EV technology, the evolving concept of mobility, and the global landscape of automotive innovation. This episode serves as a reminder that the industry is constantly evolving and that companies need to adapt to stay competitive.