Posted on September 14, 2011
While on the road to recovery following the global recession, the automotive industry is looking to the future as a time of exciting change.
At a recent GIBS Forum, Driving Change in the Automotive Industry, representatives of some of the leading global motor manufacturers spoke about the opportunities in the industry.
In a sector driven constantly by change, car manufacturers must continue to respond to economic challenges and innovate, constantly anticipating customer demands.
Green technology and the price of oil are changing the nature of the car, and new solutions must be found for different countries and markets. Highly fuel efficient cars may become a reality for markets such as South Africa, while developed countries that are able to upgrade their infrastructure could soon be driving fully electric models. Manufacturers have an obligation as well as the means to provide green technology to their customers.
In terms of manufacturing, panellists spoke about the fact that South Africa is competing on a global level against factories in Brazil and Thailand. And in order to remain a viable investment destination, our productivity levels need to be able to compete with these and other more efficient countries.
Click one of the following for photos of forum and exhibits :
Forum Panel
Mercedes Benz SA : Set 1 ; Set 2 ; Set 3
BMW SA : Set 1 ; Set 2
Ford Southern Africa
Hyundai
Images : Brenche Loubser
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