AUTOTECH STATE OF THE INDUSTRY SUMMIT BY WARDS INTELLIGENCE

Exclusive to VIP attendees of AutoTech 2025—particularly automakers with Director-level positions or higher—the AutoTech State of the Industry Summit delves deeply into the pivotal trends and technologies shaping the future of mobility. Organized by the specialists at Wards Intelligence, this half-day event follows Chatham House rules, providing a distinctive chance to obtain invaluable insights and engage in meaningful collaboration with fellow industry leaders.

BOARDROOM BRIEFINGS

North American automotive industry leaders are navigating a complex landscape marked by several strategic challenges. Attracting and retaining top talent is crucial as the sector evolves. Embracing smart manufacturing initiatives is essential to overcome vehicle development hurdles. Additionally, they must stay competitive amidst the rapid pace of innovation seen from Eastern markets. As the industry transitions into a 21st-century mobility ecosystem, these leaders must address these issues to ensure sustainable growth and innovation.

AWARDS

Celebrate with us at AutoTech 2025! The AutoTech Awards celebrate the automotive technology industry’s brightest minds, groundbreaking products and visionary companies. Join us in recognizing the innovations and individuals driving the future of automotive tech.

WardsAuto proudly presents the 2025 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX, celebrating vehicles that have impressed our judges with outstanding interior quality and innovative technology. These exceptional vehicles will be on display for you to experience firsthand!

HEADLINERS STAGE

Join us at the conference segment of the event to experience our Headliners Stage, showcasing captivating keynote presentations and discussions. Witness industry trailblazers debate and shape the future of AutoTech.

ENABLE STAGE

 The combination of 5G technology and a fully cloud-integrated service-oriented architecture offers transformative potential for both consumers and businesses. It allows for the rapid deployment of innovative software features and services, significantly enhancing user experiences. However, overcoming the technical roadblocks related to infrastructure, interoperability, security, reliability, and regulation is essential to fully realize these benefits. With strategic planning and investment, the customer-centric possibilities of 5G and software-defined can be effectively harnessed.

EXPERIENCE STAGE

The intelligent cockpit is designed to integrate flawlessly with the digital worlds of those inside the vehicle, turning it into a bespoke living area. Interfaces of the next generation will present a more intuitive method for users to interact with their car through touch, voice, eye movements, and gestures. Applications powered by artificial intelligence will provide a wide range of functionalities and services such as navigation, voice help, an online shopping marketplace, and transaction services. These innovations are specially crafted for vehicle manufacturers to forge personalized, user-friendly, and unique brand experiences inside the car.

ELECTRIFY STAGE

The future of mobility is evolving rapidly, with advancements ranging from hydrogen fuel cells and electric batteries to innovative utility systems and forward-thinking policies. However, this progress also brings significant challenges and roadblocks for automakers. They must navigate complex regulatory landscapes, invest in new technologies, and adapt to changing consumer preferences, all while maintaining profitability and sustainability. The road ahead is promising but fraught with obstacles that will require ingenuity, collaboration, and resilience from the automotive industry.

INNOVATION ACCELERATOR

Welcome to the hub of emerging tech and talent in the automotive world! Explore groundbreaking startups, meet the latest talent from local colleges and universities, watch pitch-off competitions, and more. Discover the future of automotive technology right here!

COLLABORATION CORNER

Collaboration in the automotive industry hinges on effective communication and the seamless sharing of goals, plans, and strategies. Collaboration Corner acts as a hub where organizations can share knowledge, leverage complementary skills, and foster innovative solutions. Circling a central podium, visitors can explore leading partnerships, associations, and consortiums that are shaping the future of mobility. This collaborative approach not only accelerates technological advancements but also drives the industry towards a more sustainable and efficient future.