Why the Netherlands is the place to be for the Automotive Industry?
The Dutch automotive ecosystem has emerged as an international oriented hub for the automotive and mobility industries, that can be characterized by the keywords high-tech, suppliers and international cooperation.
The Dutch Automotive Industry is an important exporting sector of the country, generating around 25 billion euros annually by providing high-tech top products. OEM’s like DAF, VDL, Ebusco and a number of specialized suppliers like NXP (chip production for the automotive industry), TomTom (navigation), Lumileds (automotive lighting), TASS International (Siemens; safe smart green mobility), Keytec and Nedschroef are just a few of the in the Netherlands based companies. In the knowledge infrastructure important automotive players are the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), TNO, Fontys University, HAN University of Applied Sciences and Summa Automotive (secondary vocational education).
The Dutch automotive industry is known for its thriving startup landscape, which supports and nurtures innovation and entrepreneurship. The government has implemented policies to promote the growth of startups and technology development, including tax incentives and funding programs. This ecosystem has enabled the emergence of new players in the industry, working on cutting-edge technologies such as electric and autonomous vehicles, solar cars, battery technologies and more. A recently established Battery Competence Cluster is the innovation program for companies, knowledge institutions and organizations that want to work together to acquire knowledge and develop skills in the field of battery technology.
The Dutch government's policies have also been instrumental in driving the growth of the automotive industry. They have implemented measures to promote sustainable mobility, such as subsidies for electric vehicles, charging infrastructure development, and tax incentives for eco-friendly cars. These policies have contributed to develop the country's position concerning battery-powered vehicles and the related infrastructure.
Overall, the Netherlands plays an interesting role in the international automotive and mobility industry, thanks to its strong focus on innovation, technology development, and international cooperation. Its skilled workforce, thriving startup ecosystem, and supportive governmental policies have enabled the country to develop an international position in the sector with a still growing interest.
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