Madrid has been the epicenter of a crucial debate for the future of the Spanish automotive industry. During the inauguration of the XII SERNAUTO Meeting, the Minister of Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu, emphasized the importance of this sector for the national economy.
With 17 vehicle production plants, a thousand suppliers, and a presence in more than 170 countriesThe Spanish automotive industry stands as a strategic asset. Hereu highlighted the sector's capacity for transformation and the urgent need for measures to guarantee its competitiveness in a constantly changing environment. "Beyond action plans, it is essential that the European support plan for the automotive sector translate into concrete measures that defend this industry. A boost from Europe is necessary," the minister stated, also urging companies to take advantage of ministerial instruments, such as the PERTEs (Special Plans for Regional Transport) and fleet renewal plans, to turn challenges into opportunities.
For its part, Francisco J. RiberasThe president of SERNAUTO, emphasized the essential role of the automotive sector in the Spanish business landscape. "We are a clear part of Spain's DNA. We have proven to be resilient, but that is not enough; we must take a leap forward, innovating in new products and processes," stated Riberas, who called for action and public-private collaboration to improve the competitiveness and financing of companies.
At the opening conference, Antonio BrufauRepsol's president offered a global perspective, noting that "Europe, globally, is currently saving what we might call 'one last match point.' We have a very complicated context, but also a great opportunity. An opportunity for a radical shift that will allow us to recover the leadership that should never have been lost."
Alberto Nunez Feijoo, president of the Popular Party, highlighted the culture of innovation of the Spanish automotive industry, which has positioned Spain as the second-largest European vehicle producer. To maintain this leadership, Feijóo proposed a specific national plan, a transition toward pragmatic and neutral decarbonization, and a reindustrialization strategy.
Under the motto "DNA Spain. Drive, intelligence and resilience", during the 12th SERNAUTO Meeting, renowned professionals analyzed how Spain can consolidate itself as a leading industrial and technological hub.
The event, held under the slogan "Spanish DNA: Drive, Intelligence, and Resilience," sought to answer the key question: how can Spain consolidate itself as a leading industrial and technological hub? Vicente Segura, Automotive Partner at Deloitte, offered a constructive view of the strengths of Spanish industry, identifying the Sustainability, digitalization, new business models and the global environment as determining factors. “This situation compels us to design a clear strategy from the industry and be precise when choosing investments. A greater commitment to technological specialization is fundamental, as is seeking those key elements that, as a country, will enhance our differentiation in the face of new players and more attractive environments,” explained Segura. The report prepared by Deloitte and SERNAUTO, presented during the meeting, highlighted the commitment to innovation, the robust industrial ecosystem, the strategic position, global connectivity, and a climate of trust to attract investment and talent.
A key dialogue on the European automotive industry took place between Francisco J. Riberas and Markus Haupt, interim CEO of SEAT and CUPRA. Both agreed on the importance of collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers and the automotive ecosystem to align objectives and face competition from markets such as China and United StatesRiberas emphasized that “Europe has not focused on preserving the automotive industry. Now that we have a diagnosis, it urgently needs to be translated into concrete measures.” Haupt, for his part, praised the breadth of Spain’s industrial fabric, its talent, and its ability to anticipate and introduce new technologies.
The SERNAUTO Meeting also provided visibility to SMEs in the sectorwith presentations in "Elevator Pitch" format about their experiences in internationalization. Companies such as ajusa, with presence in 113 countries; Fersa, operating in more than 100 countries; and Frankit, with a presence in more than 70 countries, shared their global expansion strategies, highlighting their international vision, customer proximity, and commitment to technological specialization.
The importance of talent in the age of artificial intelligence This was another key theme. Elena Riber, Director of the Automotive & Mobility Sector at The Adecco Group, pointed out that "We are in a new era of talent, where artificial intelligence does not replace people, but rather empowers them to reach their full potential. The future of the automotive industry is built with technology, yes, but above all with purpose, creativity, and humanity." Concepcion GaldónA professor at IE Business School added that “In the age of artificial intelligence, the true engine of change is people. Companies that combine technology with a clear purpose will attract and retain top talent.” Verónica Rodríguez, Human Resources Director at Bosch, emphasized her company’s commitment to investing in talent and creating an environment that fosters learning, development, and innovation, where artificial intelligence is a tool to empower both people and the business.
The event was closed by David Moneo, director of Mobility Shows at IFEMA, who shared the record figures from the last edition of Motortec, highlighting the union of the sector and its ability to open markets and consolidate alliances. Moneo also highlighted the alliance with the Autoparts from Spain platform, which shares the goal of promoting international expansion of companies.
Finally, Marcos Abollado, director at Xponenciales, gave a lecture on "Infinity: Transformational Leadership", addressing the importance of effective leadership to face change.
The XII SERNAUTO Meeting reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability by mitigating the event's emissions through participation in the Green Motor project, contributing to the absorption of 9 tons of CO2 in the Caminomorisco forest.
The success of the Meeting was made possible thanks to sponsorship from Deloitte, the support of the Repsol Foundation and Motortec, and the collaboration of The Adecco Group, Eversheds Sutherland, and ICEX Spain Export and Investment, along with the participation of more than twenty leading automotive suppliers and technology centers.
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