One of the newest members of the European Small Volume Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA), Brabus, have shared some thoughts on the year ahead and their role within ESCA.
With a distinguished reputation for innovation and craftsmanship, BRABUS GmbH exemplify the diversity of the alliance, highlighting the vital role small volume manufacturers play in shaping the future of the European automotive sector.
Brabus 
McLaren Member of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturer (ESCA), McLaren Automotive Ltd, have recently unveiled their new model the W1.
Building on the brand’s ethos of everyday usability combined with supercar performance, the W1 is set to be the fastest accelerating road legal vehicle to date, accelerating 0-100km/h in just 2.7 seconds, with a 350 km/h top speed. The W1’s high-performance is a result of McLaren’s commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible for a car.
A commitment that is widely shared by our various members across the European automotive sector and evidenced by a combined spend of over €600m on Research and Development across the financial year of 2022 to 2023.
Goupil 📈 According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), in the first nine months of 2024 new EU van sales increased by 8.5%, reaching 1,170,310 units. Driven by positive results in all four key markets of Spain, Germany, Italy and France, electrically chargeable vans account for 5.7% of the market.
🚚 Reflecting the diversity of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA), Goupil’s fully electric vans are designed for the utmost versatility, with models like the G5 having a 1 tonne service load capacity and a range of up to 100km.
🔋 In addition to the fully electric fleet, Goupil’s factory in the Southwest of France is fitted with solar panels. Representing ESCA’s ongoing commitment to promote more sustainable automotive practices within the European automotive sector.
hashtagEuropeanCars hashtagGoupil hashtagElectricVehicle hashtagManufacturing
Bertone Member of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA), Bertone have announced the launch of a new ‘Classic Range’ starting with the remake of the iconic Autobianchi A112 Runabout- as pictured.
First shown in 1969, the original car is regarded as being highly influential in the design of later Bertone models- such as the X1/9 with a signature low, flat, profile.
Bertone’s announcement is yet another example of a larger tradition of ESCA members’ honouring their brands heritage, as seen recently in Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd‘s launch of the DB5 “Goldfinger Edition” and relaunch of the Vanquish. A tradition that demonstrates the influential and enduring brand identity of our members.
ESCA, Rimac Recently, Rimac Technology announced the completed structure of a ‘Rimac Campus’ in Croatia.
The trailblazing facility is one of the largest ever undertaken in the area, accommodating Rimac Technology’s R&D and high-volume production, as well as Bugatti Rimac‘s hyper car development. It further facilitates innovative battery projects for other European carmakers, such as BMW Group.
Rimac’s facility will host 400 employees, with the capacity to accommodate 2500 upon full completion.
This is just one example of ESCA members’ importance to the European automotive industry and it’s sustainable development, with over 9000 employees in 24 R&D facilities across the continent.
ESCA, McLaren In celebration of the recent European Summit on the 8th of October 2024, ESCA is proud to be a partner of the Women Automotive Network. Hosting over 1,000 attendees from over 450 companies the Summit was a resounding success, delivering on the aim of fostering a more inclusive automotive industry.
Recently, in September 2024, ESCA member McLaren Automotive Ltd hosted the company’s second annual ‘60 Scholars’ Initiative’ – aiming to inspire the next generation of female leaders in STEM. Our members are committed to promoting greater diversity within the automotive sector, empowering female leaders towards a more inclusive feature.
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ESCA On 30th September, the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) held its third Quarterly Meeting of 2024.
Members engaged in insightful discussions about the most recent political and legislative developments at EU level. Including discussions on the potential earlier review of the Regulation on CO2 emission standards for light-duty vehicles as well as the ongoing investigation on the import of Chinese EVs.
ESCA members reflected on the potential impacts of these issues on small-volume manufacturers and agreed on a course of action to ensure that the sectors unique characteristics are continued to be considered in the next EU mandate.
Rimac Recently, Rimac Energy, a division of Rimac Group, announced the deployment of its new Sinestack battery energy storage system at a site in Colchester, UK. From 2025, the Sinestack battery energy storage and power delivery system will deliver zero energy capacity fade during it’s first two years of operation.
The announcement is emblematic of Rimac’s recent success in combining sustainability goals with high performance. In July 2023, the Rimac Nevera, produced entirely in-house, set the record for the fastest production EV car at both the Goodwood Festival of Speed and at the Nürburgring.
Rimac’s recent achievements showcase how members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) are helping drive Europe towards a more sustainable future in the automotive sector.
Aston Martin, Goupil, Lotus, McLaren In celebration of the recently passed hashtagWorldEVDay on the 9th September, we look at the many contributions of members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) to sustainable automotive practices.
1 – Electric Fleet of Vehicles 🔋
Like many other of our members, Lotus Cars Europe are progressing towards a fully electric fleet of vehicles. A move first inspired by the Lotus Evija in 2019, and most recently cemented by the success of the Lotus Eletre and Emeya, for which the British company won the prestigious Red Dot Design Award.
2 – Hydrogen Technology for Future Vehicles ⛽
Harnessing hydrogen technology is another area members of ESCA are at the forefront of. Consider, for example, McLaren Automotive Ltd‘s partnership with Mission H24 – producing a prototype capable of the highest calibre performance at Le Mans.
3: Sustainable Manufacturing Facilities 🚔
Throughout our various members, sustainable manufacturing practices are well-established. For example, Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd achieved a 23.3% reduction in CO2 emissions per car manufactured in 2023 compared with 2022, whilst Goupil have fully-fitted the roof of their factory with solar panels.
Aston Martin, Goupil, Lotus With the Paralympic Games ending on Sunday, the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) pauses to reflect on contributions made by three members to the unforgettable 2024 Summer of Sport:
1 – Goupil‘s Electric Vans were in action for the Tour De France, where Goupil’s unique versatility was on full display. The ultra-compact size enabled urban cleaners to transport and collect household waste bins and carry out a variety of cleaning functions- paramount to keeping the event running smoothly.
2 – Team GB were powered by Lotus Cars Europe; assisting the team to gold medal in track cycling women’s team sprint with a World Record time of 45.186. In the words of Richard Hill, Chief Aerodynamicist at Lotus: “Lotus is proud to continue working with British Cycling… in offering unrivalled engineering expertise to produce the most efficient and beautiful bike to support our national team”.
3 – In response to previous medalists claiming Olympic Medals were “losing shine”, Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd badge makers have pledged to restore any Olympic medals to their full condition.
Members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) continue to be of significant importance to the success of European and global sporting events. With 619,757,000 Euros invested in R&D across the financial year of 2022/23, the Alliance honours the legacy of sporting greatness while paving the way for tomorrow’s sporting successes.
Lotus Member of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA), Lotus Cars Europe, was recently awarded two Red Dot Design Awards in Product Design for its hyper electric vehicles, the Eletre (a hyper-SUV) and the Emeya (a hyper-GT).
The Awards are a prestigious global competition recognising excellence in design, judged on criteria such as aesthetics, functionality, innovation, and smart design. The jury praised these vehicles for combining Lotus’ 76-year heritage in British sports car design with advanced technology, comfort, and dynamic performance, creating electric cars that are both fun to drive and practical for daily use.
Lotus’ achievements reflect the brand’s dedication to excellence and innovation, reinforcing the strong global identity of our members as leaders in the automotive industry.
Hispano Suiza, McLaren, Pagani, Rimac Members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) continue to lead the way in innovation and craftsmanship at Monterey Car Week 2024, showcasing their latest masterpieces.
Pagani Automobili has once again set the benchmark with the introduction of the Utopia Roadster. This stunning drop-top variant of the Utopia features a Mercedes-AMG twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine and a bespoke seven-speed manual transmission by XTrac. Elsewhere, the Pagani Zonda Arrivederci will debut at The Quail.
Hispano Suiza brought their Carmen Sagrera to Monterey, continuing the celebration of their 120th anniversary. Following the dynamic debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Carmen Sagrera boasts an upgraded 103kWh battery, delivering an impressive 298 miles of range. With 1,114bhp, this all-electric supercar accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.6 seconds.
Rimac Automobili has teased car enthusiasts with the promise of a new hypercar reveal. At the time of writing, details remain under wraps, however, all eyes are on Rimac to see if this new model will surpass the groundbreaking Nevera. Last year, the Nevera Time Attack edition captivated Monterey Car Week, selling out all 12 units before the official reveal.
McLaren Automotive Ltd has this year returned to Monterey Car Week to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Ayrton Senna’s legacy. The brand will host an exclusive experience, offering guests unparalleled access to McLaren’s world, complete with a five-day itinerary filled with thrilling activities and luxury accommodations. This tribute, hosted by Bruno Senna, underscored McLaren’s ongoing commitment to innovation and the enduring impact of Ayrton Senna on the world of motorsport.
ESCA is proud to support these pioneering manufacturers who continue to push the boundaries of automotive excellence.
ESCA Automotive manufacturing is at the heart of job creation in the European Union, and according to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the industry provides employment for 3.1 million people across the continent.
Between 2022 and 2023, members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) employed approximately 9,000 people directly, and a further 9,000 through their relevant supply chains. From Woking, England to Barcelona, Spain and Sveta Nedelja, Croatia, our SVM and USVM members are helping lead the charge in fostering growth and creating employment opportunities in the automotive sector.
Through the innovative manufacturing work done by each of our members, they are also significantly contributing to the advancement of automotive technology and positioning Europe as a global leader in this field. Their dedication to these efforts ensures that our members are not just keeping pace with the evolving market demands, but actively shaping the future of automotive manufacturing for years to come.
Aston Martin, INEOS Automotive, Lotus, McLaren Earlier this year, the winners of the Autocar Great Women 2024 Awards were announced. We were delighted to see representatives of McLaren Automotive Ltd, Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd, Lotus Cars Europe and INEOS Automotive nominated throughout the various categories.
We would like to congratulate all of these outstanding individuals on their achievement, and in particular, President of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA), Helen Foord, on her nomination.
Run by AutoCar in association with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Great Women celebrates the achievements of the most influential women across the motoring sector.
Aston Martin, Bugatti, Hispano Suiza, Koenigsegg, Lotus, McLaren, Pagani, Praga, Rimac At the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed, the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) was represented by a series of high-profile automotive debuts and displays from our members.
Only a few weeks after being revealed by Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd, the Valiant, driven by Fernando Alonso, made its global debut on the historic Goodwood Hillclimb. Across the remainder of the Festival, the Valkyrie, Valour, Victor, Vantage and DBX707 were also out on display.
BUGATTI made the public debut of the recently announced Bugatti Tourbillon, powered by an all-new 8.3 litre naturally aspirated V16 engine. Those attending the Festival were also able to see the Bolide, Mistral and other iconic models from Bugatti over the weekend.
Hispano Suiza revealed the Carmen Sagrera hypercar for the first time outside Spain. The Carmen Sagrera completed its first kilometres on the famous Hillclimb driven by Luis Pérez-Sala, Hispano Suiza ambassador and former Formula 1 driver.
Elsewhere, Koenigsegg Automotive AB introduced the CC850, while the Lotus Cars Europe Evija set a new record time of 51.6 seconds for a two-seater production car on the Hillclimb.
McLaren Automotive Ltd paid tribute to Ayrton Senna by running his 1991 championship-winning MP4/6, driven by his nephew Bruno Senna, with Emerson Fittipaldi driving his championship-winning M23. Johnny Rutherford’s Indianapolis 500-winning M16C/D was on display for those at the Festival alongside the impressive Senna Supercar. Two-time Formula World Champion, Mika Häkkinen, also took to the wheel of the McLaren Solus GT.
This year saw Pagani Automobili attend with the largest selection of automobiles in their history of participation at Goodwood Festival of Speed. Throughout the Festival the Imola Roadster, Huayra Epitome, Utopia, Huayra R, Huayra Roadster, and Zonda Roadster were on view.
Finally, Praga displayed both their R1 race car and Bohema hypercar, while Rimac Automobili showcased the exclusive and newly revealed Nevera 15 Year Anniversary Edition in the Hillclimb.
Aston Martin, McLaren Members of the Small Volume Car Manufacturers’ Alliance (ESCA), Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd and McLaren Automotive Ltd, showcased impressive performances at the British Grand Prix last weekend. As the F1 2024 Season continues on, both teams demonstrated remarkable skill on the Silverstone Circuit and secured vital points in the Championship.
Their commendable performances highlight the technical iniquity of of our members, and we would like to wish them both the best of luck for the remainder of the F1 2024 Season.
Hispano Suiza, Lotus According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), over 20% of new cars sold in the EU are now electrically chargeable.
Hispano Suiza, member of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA), recently unveiled their new all-electric hypercar – the Carmen Sagrera. This not only represents the perfect blend of the brand’s legacy with cutting-edge technology, but the broader commitment of our members to constantly evolving the automotive landscape of Europe.
Lotus Cars Europe are also on their way to developing a fully electric fleet of vehicles. Since 2023, Lotus have committed to all new mainstream production vehicles being electric and will become a certified net-zero business through their commitment to being a SBTI (Science-Based Target initiative) organisation. Both of these initiatives are fantastic examples of how our members are helping to drive Europe towards a more sustainable future for the automotive sector.
Aston Martin, Goupil, McLaren In recent decades, car manufacturers in Europe have been successful in transitioning to more sustainable automotive practices. For example, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), European car manufacturers have lowered both their CO2 emissions and energy use from car production by 30% since 2005.
Members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) have been at the forefront of sustainable automotive practices in recent years. In 2022, Goupil installed solar panels on the roof of their premises and on the shade of the parking lot for their staff, providing a great example of our members using their space to produce green and local energy sources.
Furthermore, in their Sustainability Report for the year 2023, McLaren Automotive Ltd announced a 25% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 3 emissions from their fuel and facilities since 2019. Likewise, Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd, through their ‘Racing.Green’ strategy, achieved a 23.3% reduction in CO2 emissions per car manufactured when compared to 2022.
These efforts demonstrate ESCA’s commitment to environmental responsibility and paving the way for a greener future in transportation.
Goupil, Hispano Suiza The commitment of members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) to EUGreenWeek is reflected by the adoption of high-performance electric vehicles in their fleets.
From the Carmen, Carmen Boulogne and newly announced Carmen Sagrera, Hispano Suiza have pioneered a new ‘hyperlux’ electric vehicle line, which combines hypercar-rivalling performance with exquisite luxury, craftsmanship and meticulous attention to technical and engineering details.
Likewise, Goupil‘s fully electric G2, G4 and G6 utility trucks are now used in over 40 countries worldwide. Due to their versatility and modulated design, each Goupil utility truck has the ability to offer specific transportation solutions across a variety of business sectors.
Aston Martin The commitment of members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) to EUGreenWeek is reflected by their industry-leading sustainability initiatives.
Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd recently published their Sustainability Report for the year 2023. Through their ‘Racing.Green.’ strategy, Aston Martin are helping to lead the way in sustainable automotive manufacturing and this recently published report demonstrates the significant progress they are making.
For example, in 2023, Aston Martin were able to utilise 100% renewable electricity to power their manufacturing sites, whilst also achieving a 23.3% reduction in CO2 emissions per car manufactured when compared to 2022. The recently published report also highlighted Aston Martin’s achievement in reducing total energy consumption between 2022 and 2023 by 11.2%.
Lotus The commitment of members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) to EUGreenWeek is reflected by the adoption of high-performance electric vehicles in their fleets.
Lotus Cars Europe are on their way to developing a fully electric fleet of vehicles. Since 2023, Lotus have committed to all new mainstream production vehicles being electric and will become a certified net-zero business through their commitment to being a SBTI (Science-Based Target initiative) organisation.
This move was first inspired by the Lotus Evija, launched in 2019 as the first British electric hypercar. The Evija was followed by the Eletre, launched in 2022, and their latest creation is the Emeya. A new electric gran tourer (GT) that is set to begin production this year.
Lotus is also supporting other businesses in their desire to move to an all-electric future. The company’s Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture (LEVA) is the innovative new technology underpinning the Type 135 for Lotus and is also commercially available through Lotus Engineering.
Aston Martin Recently, Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd were honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise, for innovation.
The King’s Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious business awards in the UK. The awards were first established in 1965 and were renamed last year to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding businesses in the UK. This is now the third time Aston Martin have received the honour since 1998.
Aston Martin were most recently acknowledged for their unique approach to combining handcraft with the latest technology in the creation of leather interiors. This has enabled them to create an innovative perforating and quilting technique that produces decorative finishes and promotes the cooling function on its ultra-luxury leather seats. Furthermore, Aston Martin’s proprietary manufacturing technology has enabled perforated holes to be crafted in bespoke patterns to a customer’s specific design, which is impossible with traditional tooling.
The European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) would like to extend our congratulations to Aston Martin for this remarkable achievement that demonstrates the capability of all our members to consistently be at the forefront of automotive innovation.
#astonmartin #innovation #manufacturing #kingcharles
Uncategorized The European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) is proud to support EUGreenWeek 2024. Each of our members are committed to preserving our wonderful environment for future generations and are keen that the concerns of small and ultra small volume car manufacturers are considered in European environmental policy.
To find out more about how our members are helping the EU achieve its environmental goals, be sure to follow our LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter where we will be posting updates over the coming days.
hashtageugreenweek hashtageugreenweek2024 hashtagsustainability hashtagautomotive
Rimac Recently, Rimac Technology announced a long-term partnership with BMW Group to provide high-voltage battery units for BMW Group’s product range. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Rimac Technology, representing the largest and most ambitious project the company has undertaken. In order to deliver on this collaboration, sophisticated automated production lines for batteries at the Rimac Campus near Zagreb, Croatia will be established for the project.
As we approach EU Green Week next month, this partnership represents the broader aims of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) in developing sustainable automotive practices.
Uncategorized According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the European automotive sector contributes approximately €73 billion towards research development each year, making the sector Europe’s largest private investor in research and development.
Across the financial year of 2022 to 2023, members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) invested over €600,000,000 towards research and development. These investments enable ESCA members to continually push the boundaries of technology, design, and sustainability in their vehicles. By allocating significant resources to research and development initiatives, ESCA members are able to develop cutting-edge technology such as lightweight materials and enhanced safety features.
Gordon Murray The European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) are proud to welcome our newest member Gordon Murray Automotive, a British manufacturer of exclusive and lightweight supercars. Founded in 2017 by former Formula 1 and McLaren F1 designer, Gordon Murray, the manufacturer focuses on delivering driving perfection through engineering excellence.
Gordon Murray Automotive currently have four models in production, including the company’s flagship T.50, the track-only T.50s, T.33 and their latest creation, the T.33 Spider.
The T.33 Spider is engineered to be one of the world’s most beautiful and most accomplished two-seater supercars and, with two removable roof panels, the Spider offers an even more engaging, immersive driving experience. Power comes from the naturally aspirated, 3.9 litre Cosworth GMA.2 V12, the world’s lightest and most technically advanced road going V12.
From everyone at ESCA, we are delighted to have Gordon Murray Automotive as a new and valued member of the Group, and we look forward to a successful future working together.
Uncategorized On 18th March, the European Small volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) held its first quarterly meeting of 2024. Members had the opportunity to approve the priorities for the (U)SVMs sector ahead of the 2024 EU elections and review the achievements made in 2023 on important files such as Euro 7.
In 2024, ESCA will continue to work on the file, notably on the secondary legislation that is currently being developed by the European Commission. ESCA will also be closely following the political developments around the EU elections to ensure the specificities of our sector are recognised by the next European Parliament.
Uncategorized Today, on International Women’s Day, the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) proudly celebrate the remarkable contributions of women to all of our members and the automotive sector. From design through to innovation, their talent and dedication have been invaluable in shaping a more successful and diverse future for the sector.
In 2024, ESCA are proud to be sponsors of the Women Automotive Network, who through their work, aim to support and empower women in the automotive industry and be the driving force behind the development of strong female leaders. We hope that by partnering together, ESCA can be a part of positive change and the promotion of greater diversity within the automotive sector.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Women Automotive Network are hosting an online meetup available to everyone that consists of informative sessions, keynote speakers and great networking opportunities. For further details please visit this link: https://lnkd.in/ewSz8bkv
Uncategorized According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), the European automotive sector contributes 7% towards the GDP of the European Union (EU). Across the financial year of 2022 to 2023, members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) recorded over €3 billion of turnover in this period contributing significantly to each of their respective nations’ GDP.
European (U)SVMs continue to produce and export some of the most iconic, desirable and innovative vehicles. Preserving such a key high-value manufacturing sector, in such a complex transformational stage for the automotive industry, is of paramount importance for the EU.
Bugatti, Rimac As we look forward to International Women’s Day, Vuslat ODABAŞI, Tire Development Engineer at Bugatti Rimac, has shared her thoughts on the positive developments in diversity and inclusion within the automotive sector.
1) What steps do you think are necessary to encourage more women to pursue careers in the automotive sector?
It begins with self-belief that you should have a seat at the table in this industry, and of course it goes without saying that women certainly do. However, it is up to the industry to do more to ensure that women feel comfortable in taking those first steps and are encouraged to do so. More widely, confidence is the catalyst; once it takes root, success follows. Rather than waiting for opportunities, create them.
2) There is a vast range of skill sets required within the automotive sector. Can you discuss these and how to foster a broader pool of entrants and applicants for these roles?
I always emphasize being open to learning and continual improvement. While the automotive sector demands high soft and hard skills, lacking them initially shouldn’t be a deterrent to joining our industry. Time management, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills can be acquired through seminars or online courses and these are skills that absolutely anyone, from any background can learn and exceed in. For hard skills, a degree alone may not suffice but there is always room to explore your options and delve deeper into related topics and skills. Both skill sets necessitate a passion for improvement and goal attainment and provide important foundations for a career in this exciting industry and beyond.
3) Have you observed any specific initiatives or practices that have effectively promoted diversity and inclusion in the workplace within this sector?
Numerous “Women in Engineering” portals have emerged which is really encouraging. Companies are organising more seminars, meet-ups, scholarships, courses, and events, introducing successful individuals from within the automotive industry to girls from primary school up to university. Companies and universities worldwide are becoming more and more active in inviting passionate individuals to share opportunities, inspire, instill hope, and ignite enthusiasm within the sector.
4) Have you noticed any notable shifts or improvements in the diversity and gender diversity landscape of the automotive industry in recent years? If so, what factors do you believe contributed to these changes?
There have definitely been improvements, but there is a very long way to go with less than a quarter of engineers being female. Positively, in recent years, social media has played a pivotal role. Previously, reserved women have found courage in the experiences shared by other women, realising that climbing the professional ladder within the automotive sector is more achievable than originally perceived.
Uncategorized The European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) are thrilled to announce our recent partnership with the Women Automotive Network for 2024. The Women Automotive Network is a global community of over 34,000 people that aims to support and empower women in the automotive industry and be the driving force behind the development of strong female leaders.
By partnering with the Women Automotive Network, ESCA hope to be a part of change and the promotion of greater diversity within the automotive sector.
Uncategorized Alessandro Campochiaro, ESCA Vice President and Head of Vehicle Type Approval & Regulatory Affairs at Bugatti Rimac, has shared some thoughts on his new role at ESCA as well as the year ahead for the small volume manufacturing sector.
1) What motivated you to take on this role, and what are you most looking forward to in your new position as ESCA Vice President?
Ever since I started working in the automotive industry, I have always been a part of the small volume manufacturer sector. Having the chance to represent and provide my support to increase the importance of the industry, is an honour and something I consider a great achievement. I am really looking forward to bringing my experience in order to highlight the importance of our products and various the challenges niche OEMs are facing in the regulatory environment.
2) Given the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, how do you envision the future for the small volume car manufacturing sector?
The large-scale road transport industry is increasingly evolving in the implementation of autonomous driving, which will certainly bring benefits in everyday life but will leave less and less space for the emotions that can be felt while driving exceptional cars like the ones produced by ESCA’s members. From this perspective, I believe that our sector will gain more and more importance and value, continuing to follow technological progress and maintaining our identity based on the passion of our customers.
3) What challenges do you foresee for small volume car manufacturers in 2024, and how do you plan to address or navigate these challenges in your role as Vice President?
2024 is a key milestone in the evolution of important legislative processes that started many years ago. For example, the final publication of EURO 7 as well as the initial discussions on secondary legislation will take place this year. ESCA’s role in supporting this process, highlighting the technical challenges SVMs and USVMs will face, is crucial to allow our members to continue bringing their products to the European market without unnecessary burden, and with a decreasing impact on the environment.
4) As the Vice President of ESCA, what specific goals do you have in mind to enhance the representation and support for small volume car manufacturers in Europe?
Given my background, one of the main targets I would like to achieve during my tenure is to improve and increase our internal technical evaluation and impact assessment processes for new regulations. This will allow ESCA to provide even more reliable and objective data to support our actions. Additionally, I think ESCA’s activities should focus even more so on legislative processes outside of the European Union, where other challenges will arise in the future.
Uncategorized According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), approximately 7% of all employees in Europe, or 13 million people, are employed across the automotive value chain.
Members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturer Alliance (ESCA) were proud to directly employ a workforce of nearly 10,000 dedicated individuals, and significantly more indirectly through the supply chain, in the financial year of 2022.
Through both their production centres and research and development facilities, ESCA members thrive on the expertise and commitment of their talented employees across multiple countries in Europe. Including France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia and Luxembourg.
Lotus, McLaren Last week at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham, England, members of the European Small Volume Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) were present to represent the small volume manufacturing sector.
Having previously won the timed shootout at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the McLaren Automotive Ltd Solus GT was on show. Featuring a central, single-seat, closed-cockpit design with jet aircraft-style sliding canopy, and a motorsport-derived powertrain as a structural element, the 5.2-litre V10 Solus weighs less than 1000kg and can produce more than 1200kg of downforce.
Elsewhere, the Lotus Cars Europe Cortina was on display to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Jim Clark winning the British Touring Car Championship in the famous vehicle produced in the United Kingdom from 1963 to 1970.
Uncategorized The EU car market has recently entered a sixteenth consecutive month of growth with year-to-date car sales increasing by over 16%, totaling nearly 10 million units. As the sector continues to surge, members of the European Small Volume Car Manufacturers Alliance (ESCA) have made valuable contributions in supporting this growth.
Across the financial year of 2022 to 2023, over 18,000 cars were produced and over 15,000 cars were registered by our members. In addition, with over €3 billion of turnover recorded in this period, the contribution of ESCA members to the expansion of the EU car market cannot be understated.
Uncategorized In recent years, the automobiles and parts sector have been leading the way in research and development share across the EU. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), in 2021 the automobile sector accounted for 31% of sectorial research and development in the EU, the largest of any sector.
Across the financial year of 2022-2023, our members made a substantial commitment to to research and development, with a total investment of over €600,000,000.
Throughout the meeting, members engaged in insightful discussions about the recent EU Election outcomes and the upcoming UK General Election, analysing their potential impacts on the automotive industry and specifically on small volume manufacturers.
During the discussion, members also tackled crucial policy issues, diving deep into the implementation of Euro 7, the General Safety Regulation, and the Regulation on Batteries and Waste Batteries.