Program Wednesday - 9 April - Decarbonization

Opening: The Road to Sustainable Mobility

Pim Grol (RAI Automotive Industry NL), Naomie Verstraeten (Brainport Development), and Arno Bonte (Wethouder Helmond) open the day by discussing the importance of decarbonization in mobility. Why must the industry come together, and what role does the Netherlands—and its regions—play in this transition? They will share their vision for the future and set the stage for a day focused on balancing sustainability with economic strength.
 

The Ideal Future: Balancing Competitiveness and Sustainability in the European Car Industry

S&P Global presents the current state of decarbonization in the automotive industry. With challenges like slow EV adoption, limited incentives, and increasing pressure on manufacturers, is the EU moving fast enough - or does the industry need more time? This session provides key insights to frame the discussions ahead.

Expert Insights on Decarbonization

• Maria Linkova-Nijs, Executive Head of Policy and Strategy, ACEA
• Benjamin Kreiger, SG CLEPA

Maria Linkova-Nijs (ACEA) and Benjamin Kreiger (CLEPA) provide a high-level view of Europe’s path to sustainable mobility. Is the momentum for decarbonization fading or accelerating? With funding for batteries and digitalization in the European automotive action plan and a potential two-year extension for sustainability targets, should the industry slow down—or risk missing its moment? This session explores the balance between competitiveness and climate goals on the road to 2035.

Interview with Harald Seidel, CEO of DAF Trucks

Harald Seidel shares DAF’s perspective on the challenges of decarbonizing heavy road transport. With products ready and investments made, why is large-scale rollout still lagging? He discusses the impact of the European Automotive Action Plan, the need for technology-neutral policies, and the critical role of infrastructure development. How can we accelerate the transition while keeping European industry competitive? And what incentives are needed to make sustainable transport a viable choice for businesses?

Panel discussion with battery experts

•  Mustafa Amhaouh BCC-NL (Battery Competence Cluster)
  Daniela Sordi, CarbonX
• Axel Schönecker, E-Magy - 
• Janet Kes, ARN
• Michiel van den Besselaar, Omron 

What does Europe - and the Netherlands - need to establish a strong battery ecosystem? Experts from industry and research discuss the current gaps, opportunities for innovation, and how Europe compares to China. Topics include advanced battery materials, scaling production, and the role of circularity in battery recycling. With batteries playing a key role in decarbonization, how can the Netherlands carve out a competitive position in this rapidly evolving market?

Charging Solutions for a Sustainable Future

• Roel Vissers, Milence 
• Arthur van Mook, NIO
• Sophie Stigt, InMotion 

With grid congestion posing a major challenge, what are the most effective solutions for scaling up charging infrastructure—especially for heavy-duty transport? Experts from Milence, NIO, and InMotion discuss different approaches, from high-power truck charging to battery swapping and ultra-fast charging innovations. How do global developments compare, and what policy or investment shifts are needed to accelerate deployment?

Challenges in Hydrogen adoption

• Vemobin, Marnix Koopmans
• Peter van der Heijden, NPS Driven 
• Tobias Lucas, Forze Hydrogen Racing, Studententeam

Is hydrogen a viable and competitive fuel option, or will it struggle to scale up? Experts from Vemobin, NPS Driven, and Forze Hydrogen Racing discuss the production, infrastructure, and policy challenges facing hydrogen adoption. While batteries dominate the conversation, hydrogen could play a crucial role in heavy transport and fleet applications. What incentives and regulations are needed to accelerate its deployment, and how can the Netherlands position itself in the global hydrogen economy?

Circularity in the steel industry

• Interview with Robin Kager, Tata Steel Nederland

Is zero-emission steel production achievable with the current energy supply and pricing? In this session, Robin Kager from Tata Steel Nederland will discuss the potential and challenges of circularity in the steel industry. How would a 100% circular industry impact the need for new raw materials? Robin will also explore the role of green steel and hydrogen in advancing sustainable production practices.

Speed or slow down the transition

• Petrouschka Werther, Ministerie I&W, Directeur Duurzame Mobiliteit
• TNO, Martijn Stamm 

In this debate, Petrouschka Werther from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and Martijn Stamm from TNO will discuss how to turn sustainability vision into action in the mobility sector. What concrete steps and collaborations are needed to drive progress? The session will also explore the current state of trade barriers, what can be done today to accelerate sustainability, and showcase ongoing efforts in the mobility sector.

Take a break from the sessions and mingle with your peers.

First session of 3 Deep Dive Presentations

A Deep Dive is a presentation by an expert on the topic with a Q&A session with the audience. These sessions are 3 presentations in parallel, delegates have to pick one.

Second session of 3 Deep Dive Presentations

A Deep Dive is a presentation by an expert on the topic with a Q&A session with the audience. These sessions are 3 presentations in parallel, delegates have to pick one.