Could you tell us about the development of the World Automotive Conference?

The World Automotive Conference is returning to Istanbul for the 6^th year. The event has grown from a small gathering of local key-players to welcoming over 800 regional senior decision-makers. The aim of the event has always been to bring international experts who can share their expertise with the latest game-changers, and we’re proud to welcome Katharina Hopp, VP, Urban Solutions, Robert Bosch from Germany and Deborah Sherry, SVP & CCO, Europe, Russia and CIS, GE Digital this year. WAC truly is a place where you can learn about the latest technology trends affecting your business and how to capitalise on the current business potential.

Why is WAC held Turkey?

Istanbul is renowned as the gateway between Europe and Asia, and as the host city of WAC has therefore has always attracted some really inspirational names, such as Japan’s NTT DoCoMo’s VP. Aside from Turkey’s strategic locational importance, the country has a fantastic automotive industry of its own, including 14 established international manufacturers, the new domestic car project and new OEMs entering the market.

Could you explain Turkey’s position in the automotive sector?

As mentioned, Turkey is a very beneficial location for those looking to do business across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The automotive industry is a pillar of the Turkish economy, offering competitive cost advantages, a skilled labour force and many new R&D hubs.

What will we witness in this year’s WAC? Can you tell us about the sessions to take place?

For the first time, this year WAC’s agenda is being divided into three parallel tracks after the morning Keynotes. The idea being to allow the audience to choose which session is more related to their business and thereby encouraging greater in-depth discussion during the day. Tracks are divided into “Today’s Revolution”, which will explore the necessity of adopting new manufacturing technologies, including case study from Industrial Director, Faurecia, France. The second track entitled: “The Future of Automotive”, will look at how to meet customer’s future mobility needs, via 5G for example. Whilst the third track: “A Digital & Global World” is more technical, focusing on Supply Chain Digitalisation and Electrification Impacts.

Why should industrialists join the WAC? What will the conference provide to its participants?

If you are working in the automotive industry, you need to be at WAC on October 17^th. Not only will you learn from inspirational international leaders, you will gain insight from the new start-ups changing the industry and most importantly you’ll get to network with new business contacts and those that can really offer you the competitive edge to stay ahead of the competition. The proof is in our attendee list! A snapshot of current companies confirmed to attend already include: Google, ABB, Borcelik, Bosch, BMC, BNP Paribas, Continental, Delphi, Farplas, FEV, GE, HEMA, Honda, Karsan, Kordsa, MAN, Maxion, Petrol Ofisi, Toyota, Vestel…

6^th Annual World Automotive Conference, 17^th October 2019, Wyhndam Levent Istanbul

www.worldautomotiveconference.co.uk

Stephanie May

Commercial Director

Worldwide Partnerships London