Automotive Exports – April 2017

Monthly automotive aftermarket magazine
Automobile CEOs Make Case
For Europe
Marking the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome tomorrow, the CEOs of
Europe’s 15 automobile manufacturers have adopted a statement re-iterating
their commitment to the founding principles of the European Union
“In these times, when
principles such as free trade
and the freedom of movement are
under pressure, we believe that it is
more important than ever to make
the case for Europe,” stressed the
CEOs, who are all members of the
Board of the European Automobile
Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA).
The automobile industry values
the EU for enabling the free
movement of goods, people,
services and capital, all key to
growth and competitiveness. It
now enjoys access to a single
market of half a billion consumers,
who in turn can profit from the
benefits of scale. Today, vehicle
manufacturers operate almost 300
plants across the continent, often
manufacturing engines in one
country and assembling vehicles
in another, something that would
be impossible without the four
freedoms. At the same time, the
industry employs 12.2 million
Europeans across the value chain
and contributes 6.5% to the EU’s
GDP.
“Without Europe, we would
not have a level playing field in
which all auto manufacturers can
compete to offer affordable cars,”
stated Erik Jonnaert, ACEA Secretary
General. “Likewise, following the
recent issues faced by our industry,
EU rules are important to help win
back the trust of consumers.”
Jonnaert: “What is true for our
industry, is also important for
society: trade barriers, isolation and
borders are no answers to today’s
challenges. We believe that we
have a duty to speak up against
any attempts to turn back time. It is
not about what we can save from
the past. It’s about what we can
win for future generations.”
The European Automobile
Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) is
the Brussels-based trade association
of the 15 major car, van, truck and
bus producers in Europe.
ACEA Board’s statement on the
Treaty of Rome can be found
28 APRIL 2017