Over 200 policymakers and industry leaders discussed the digital future of EU road transport at the annual IRU spring cocktail in Brussels.
Representatives from the European Commission, Member States and the European Parliament joined industry leaders at IRU’s spring cocktail in Brussels, marking an important moment in EU efforts to digitalise road transport.
Held at the iconic Solvay Library, the event provided a key platform for informal exchanges on leveraging digital technologies, while offering valuable networking opportunities.
Key takeaways
The discussions focused on practical solutions to drive innovation, efficiency and sustainability in road transport, underscoring a strong commitment for collaboration between industry and policymakers.
Deputy Permanent Representative of Poland to the EU Arkadiusz Pluciński, said, “Road transport is vital for a competitive single market and the broader EU economy.
“Now is the time to simplify administrative processes, reduce burdens, and advance digitalisation, especially through initiatives like Intelligent Transport Systems and the Driving Licence Directive.”
Director-General for Mobility and Transport at the European Commission Magda Kopczyńska said, “We must establish the right regulatory conditions to accelerate the testing and deployment of connected and automated vehicles, while ensuring streamlined enforcement across the EU.
"The European Commission's Automotive Action Plan, released today, outlines the roadmap for this transformation."
Digitalisation: A strategic imperative for the future
IRU President Radu Dinescu said, “As we move forward, it is crucial that we continue to build on the momentum from today’s discussions, ensuring that the policies and investments we make today lay the foundation for tomorrow’s sustainable, efficient and competitive transport system.”
As e-CMR, digital freight corridors, and intelligent transport systems gain traction, the event emphasised that regulatory alignment is crucial for enabling these digital advancements to reach their full potential, establishing the necessary infrastructure and policies to future-proof the road transport sector.
IRU EU Director Raluca Marian said, “The shared commitment to advancing digitalisation is evident, as everyone from regulators to transport operators are united in their efforts to drive a more sustainable, efficient and connected road transport sector.
“This level of collaboration is crucial not only for addressing future challenges but also for leading the transition to a digital and sustainable future. This was evident in the discussions at IRU’s spring cocktail, which closely aligned with the automation pathway outlined in the European Commission’s Automotive Strategy, launched on the same day.”
