A Changing World and a New Playing Field
Technological advancements are accelerating at an unprecedented pace. Electrification has become mainstream, software increasingly defines vehicle behaviour, and data has become just as crucial as steel. Mobility, once primarily a mechanical discipline, has transformed into a platform for innovation where IT, energy technology, materials science, and user experience converge.
This shift creates exciting new opportunities but also sends a clear message: only those who are part of the ecosystem will remain relevant.
From Supply Chains to Ecosystems
The traditional linear supply chain, moving from supplier to OEM to end user, is being replaced by dynamic, real-time ecosystems. Startups, multinationals, knowledge institutions, governments, and users collaborate continuously on modular solutions that adapt to changing needs. Mobility has become a service, and companies that continue to think only in terms of products risk being left behind.
For the Dutch manufacturing industry, this means producing smarter and, just as importantly, collaborating smarter. It calls for a new mindset: shifting from protection to sharing, and from competition to co-creation.
International Reach is Essential
The Netherlands has all the ingredients to lead cutting-edge knowledge, an innovative industry, and strong public-private partnerships. However, without international scale, partnerships, and visibility, many of our solutions will remain confined to the local level. And in today's world, local simply is not enough.
To remain relevant, we must proactively join global mobility platforms, not just as suppliers but as strategic partners helping to shape standards, infrastructure, and interoperable systems.
A Call to Industry and Government
At RAI Automotive Industry NL, we believe in a future where the Netherlands does not follow but leads. We do not merely supply products but create value within complete and integrated mobility systems. Achieving this requires investment in innovation, strong collaboration across sectors, and a government that matches vision with action.
It is concerning that the recent Spring Memorandum made no mention of mobility, especially when now is the crucial time to invest in smart, sustainable, and competitive solutions. Without structural support, the Netherlands risks losing ground to countries that are decisively investing in the future of mobility.
Our call is clear: continue investing in mobility as a system. Invest in innovation, in collaboration, and in strengthening the Netherlands' international leadership in sustainable mobility solutions.
We urge companies, knowledge institutions, and policymakers to join forces. Share your vision, make your voice heard, and build with us towards a future where Dutch mobility sets the global standard.
