Technical Innovations for More Sustainable Vehicles
The jury members had probably never had to evaluate as many components as this year: Despite the pandemic and the war against Ukraine and the associated enormous challenges, SPE Central Europe received 45 submissions, of which 43 components were presented at the jury evaluation meeting. The 27 experts from processing, tooling and machinery, raw material suppliers and OEMs, as well as from institutes and the trade press on site, and the three jurors who joined online, had a tight schedule to manage.
It quickly became apparent that many innovations are based on making vehicles in general and the submitted components in particular more sustainable—through new technologies and new materials, but also through the engineering integration of known elements into new concepts. Some components represent true circular economy, some consist of post-industrial recyclates or even raw materials from the “yellow bag” or yellow bin.
Many of the innovations concern details that require explanation. Therefore, most submitters accepted the offer and answered questions from the jury members. Some joined online, others made the trip to Blankenhain and explained on site what the plastics technology innovation in their component consists of. This information and the answers to often critical follow-up questions helped the jurors to evaluate the submissions objectively and in a differentiated manner.
A heartfelt thank you is due to all jury members who diligently and attentively carried out the evaluation from morning until late afternoon. SPE Central Europe extends its sincere gratitude to the employees of the GRAFE Group for their hospitality and excellent preparation. Thanks also to the media technicians of the Comitec Group, who perfectly implemented the diverse technical requirements.
The representatives of the companies that submitted vehicle components are now waiting with anticipation, just like the jury members, for the Award Night on October 17, 2022 in Düsseldorf/Neuss. Then the secret will be revealed as to who will be among the fortunate ones to take an award home. In addition, decision-makers from automotive manufacturing and system suppliers will be in the audience. They listen very carefully when the parts and their innovative solutions are explained. Probably the most efficient type of advertising a company can receive.
If you would like to experience the Automotive Award Gala live, you will find the registration form under the menu item “Award 2022”.
Photo: © Klaus Fricke
