A European push: preparing for Level 4 automation
A major milestone this year was the strategic vision launched by the CCAM Association under the upcoming FP10 framework program. The vision centres on three key priorities:
- large-scale deployment of Level 4 automated driving,
- interoperability between systems and vehicles,
- and strengthening European technological sovereignty.
“Europe has drawn a clear line on the horizon,” Hendrix explains. “The message is simple: automated mobility is no longer something for the distant future; it is now a matter of strategic industrial policy.”
Themes that defined the year
Within the Digitalisation Program, several themes took centre stage in 2025:
- software-defined vehicles and AI,
- data infrastructures and centralised electronics,
- and the legal and regulatory frameworks required to bring technology to real-world deployment.
Cybersecurity also remained a structural priority. “You cannot build autonomous systems without robust security,” Hendrix stresses. “Data sharing becomes increasingly valuable, but only when it is safe, transparent and reliable.”
The challenge: scaling up beyond pilots
As in many European countries, the biggest challenge in 2025 was the transition from pilot projects to large-scale implementation. Despite strong momentum, many projects, partnerships and testbeds, the Netherlands still lacks a cohesive national strategy for CCAM.
“There is energy in the system, but not yet a clear direction,” says Hendrix. “We have the technology, we have strong ecosystems, now we need shared national leadership to move from innovation to implementation.” This strategic clarity is crucial if the Netherlands wants to remain competitive against countries investing heavily in deployment.
Proud moments: technology made visible
Looking back, Hendrix is particularly proud of the progress within the DITM project (Digital Infrastructure for Transport and Mobility). During Drive Forward and DITM Day on November 20, new technologies were showcased, including teleoperation, automated lane navigation and radar-based localisation. “DITM demonstrates how far the Netherlands really is,” Hendrix says. “It is a unique project where technology, policy and real-world application come together. That combination is powerful and necessary.”
Results that shape the road ahead
A significant development this year was the announcement by the Ministry of Infrastructure & Water Management to explore autonomous public transport services. The technologies developed within DITM directly support these ambitions. “It is a concrete example of how our project work translates into policy impact,” Hendrix notes. “That is exactly the role we want to play as a program.”
Looking ahead: breakthroughs in autonomous freight transport
For 2026, Hendrix expects major progress in autonomous freight transport. The combination of technological maturity, logistical efficiency and safety benefits makes the freight sector a natural front-runner for large-scale deployment.
In addition, the program is preparing for:
- the completion of DITM,
- deeper European collaboration,
- and implementation of new large-scale projects, both in the Netherlands and abroad.
A call to the sector
Finally, Hendrix has a clear message for companies, research institutes and public partners: “Digitalisation is no longer an add-on, it is the foundation of our mobility system. That is why collaboration is more important than ever. Invest in R&D, join forces across Europe and make use of the momentum we have right now. Only together can we move from pilots to true large-scale deployment.”
In 2026, the Digitalisation Program of RAI Automotive Industry NL will continue to focus on cooperation, policy alignment and accelerating the implementation of smart and automated mobility.
