IAA Transportation Sets Attendance Records in Hanover

The IAA Transportation event in Hanover, Germany, attracted 145,000 attendees, marking a 10% increase from the previous event in 2022. The conference also achieved a record 6,300 test drives of emission-free vehicles, illustrating the industry’s push for climate-neutral mobility. Hildegard Müller, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry, emphasized the need for ready deployment of climate-friendly vehicles and highlighted that infrastructure poses a significant barrier to widespread adoption, particularly regarding charging and hydrogen refueling stations. The event saw manufacturers like Volvo showcasing their electric trucks and discussing public charging infrastructure needs. Collaborative efforts among manufacturers to enhance refueling options were also noted, including a joint venture in Europe to establish 1,700 charging points. Germany's federal minister for digital and transport praised the event as a showcase for innovations in commercial vehicles. Moving forward, Müller called for accountability among stakeholders, advocating for a clear framework with ongoing monitoring to ensure progress. The next IAA Transportation is scheduled for September 2026. In transportation, the discussion at IAA points to a critical moment where industry advancements must be paralleled by infrastructure development. The commitment from manufacturers is encouraging, but without substantial infrastructure investment and policy support from governments, the transition to sustainable transport may face significant setbacks. Effective planning and collaboration between public and private sectors are essential to facilitate this shift and meet climate goals.