What's the news?
The Electronomous car technology event took place in Killarney this week. Numerous industry figures were in attendance, with Quentin Wilson acting as master of ceremonies for the summit. Wilson had this to say: "With diesel fumes in London fast becoming an electoral issue, Ireland's Electronomous event is spookily well timed. Electric and hybrid cars and vans are part of the long-term answer to the UK's air quality problems. What a shame Westminster's politicians won't be joining us - they might just learn something...."
Cartell.ie was the driving force behind the event, and Jeff Aherne, director of the online vehicle history service, commented: "Self-driving vehicles are a fascinating glimpse at the future of this sector. But there are still hurdles to be overcome. Aside from the programming and engineering challenges there is also the involvement of governments around the world. We really are looking at the future here and Cartell is delighted to be driving this discussion."
Concerns such as Valeo and ESB cars were present, with guests enjoying a networking dinner at the Brehon Hotel on Wednesday evening. The show aims to become the leading European car technology event in the near future, and things certainly got off to a good start at the INEC-based conference.
The managing directors of both Volvo and BMW's Irish operations gave keynote speeches, with Volvo's David Thomas saying, "At Volvo, our main focus has always been on people and making their lives easier. Technology should improve the consumer experience making mobility safer, sustainable and more convenient. Volvo's unique approach is to define the technology based on the role of the driver - not the other way around. The next 10 years is set to be a very exciting time as the industry focus shifts to autonomous driving, electrification and connectivity."
Paulo Alves of BMW gave his thoughts on potential future developments, remarking: "We firmly believe that the mobility of the future will be sustainable mobility and electrification is already playing a big part towards this vision. Experience has clearly shown us that to make electro-mobility attractive, having a good charging infrastructure and vehicles with the right range and price is not sufficient. It will take additional incentives and increased public awareness to make it happen. That's why we at BMW Ireland are delighted to be at the Electronomous conference, so we can collaborate with all stakeholders in this journey."