Acceleration Agenda Dutch Automotive Industry

Acceleration Agenda Dutch Automotive Industry

Acceleration Agenda for the Automotive Industry in the Netherlands

The Dutch automotive manufacturing industry is one of the largest industrial and export sectors in the country, generating an annual turnover of €35–40 billion and employing over 55,000 people. Yet, this sector remains significantly undervalued. The notion that “the Netherlands has no automotive industry” is a persistent misconception, one that risks becoming a painful reality if we fail to act now.

The Acceleration Agenda for the Automotive Industry in the Netherlands outlines what is at stake and presents concrete actions to safeguard and strengthen our leading position. Based on interviews, workshops, and discussions with more than 50 representatives from industry, research institutions, and government, the agenda provides clear recommendations and introduces five strategic impulse programs focused on electrification, hydrogen, digitalisation, battery technology, and circular materials.

The message is clear: only through coordinated action between industry and government can we achieve the necessary transitions and ensure a level playing field with countries that are already heavily supporting their industries, such as Germany, China, and the United States. This agenda contributes to employment, innovation capacity, the sustainability of logistics, and the strengthening of the Netherlands’ strategic industrial position

Presented to former Minister Beljaarts at Automechanika 2025

During Automechanika 2025 in Frankfurt, the Acceleration Agenda was officially presented to Dirk Beljaarts, the former Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs. In the presence of key representatives from the Dutch automotive sector, knowledge institutions, and government, Harald Seidel, CEO of DAF Trucks, led the official handover.

This moment underscores the strategic importance of future-oriented industrial policy focused on sustainable mobility, innovation, and strengthening economic resilience. The Acceleration Agenda is not only a call to action, but it is a shared commitment to the future of the Dutch automotive industry. Read more.

Read the Acceleration Agenda

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Managing Director RAI Automotive Industry NL

Pim Grol

Show profile Pim Grol