Over the course of history, technology and the auto industry have often co-existed, hand-in-hand. Often intertwined, it was technology that drove the auto industry to new heights, leading to breakthroughs that have made lasting and profound impacts in our society.
Next week in particular is an important week with respect to technology and the automotive sector in British Columbia. On the eve of the 98th Vancouver International Auto Show, industry experts from across Canada will congregate in Vancouver for a panel discussion on the industry’s current technological revolution.
When we think back on the history of the automobile and the impact it’s had on human history, it becomes clear that the automotive industry was always much more than just transportation. The technological advances spear-headed by the automotive industry over the years have been monumental.
For example, before Henry Ford’s automated assembly line, mass production was virtually unheard of. The automotive sector was also always at the forefront of safety technology – developing ways to test new features and creating systems like rear-park assist, antilock braking systems,air-bags and turbo chargers for increased fuel efficiency.
In the past decade, we’ve seen the conversation in the auto industry shift to conversations about energy and how this sector can be a leader in green technology. From cutting-edge machinery to government electric vehicle incentives and infrastructure, the global auto industry is turning its attention to environmental stewardship.
Green technology is on the rise in the auto world, with auto manufacturers rolling out new electric vehicle models year after year. The panel discussion leading into the Vancouver International Auto Show, will involve some of Canada’s automotive leaders taking an in-depth look at what the future of the auto industry holds.
On March 27, the New Car Dealers Association of BC will welcome Stephen Beatty, Vice President and Corporate Secretary of Toyota Canada Inc.; Brian Fulton, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada; and Ted Lancaster, Vice President and COO of Kia Canada Inc. for a panel discussion on all things technology – between 11:30AM – 2PM, at the Vancouver Convention Centre West.
This panel of industry experts will weigh in on some of the most current conversations taking place in the automotive world today, including electrification and autonomous mobility. As the auto world leads the charge in green technology, the perspectives of such high-calibre industry experts are a great forecast for what’s yet to come.
To quote Mary Barra, CEO of GM, “I believe the auto industry will change more in the next five to 10 years than it has in the last 50.”
British Columbia is a proud leader in the automotive green revolution, boasting one of the largest charging networks in the country and the highest EV sales per capita. But being an early adopter is not without its challenges. These challenges and possible solutions will be addressed by the industry experts as they put their minds together to discuss what can be improved in not only B.C. but across Canada as well.
To purchase tickets and join the discussion, visit the online Eventbrite ticket page for How Technology is Revolutionizing the Automotive Sector: From EVs to connected cars to Autonomous Vehicles, how technology is changing everything!
Come join me at the 98th Vancouver International Auto Show from March 28 to April 1 for a glimpse at what the future of the auto industry has to offer. For more information on the Show and to purchase tickets, visit https://vancouverinternationalautoshow.com/speaker-series-tech-auto/
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
