The VRWI lends its full support to the analyses and recommendations of the 'Automotive' Innovation Steering Group. It is the new and specific three-stage policy approach no less that can ensure the leverage effect of public R&D investments in the automotive sector is reinforced, which may also have a welcome impact on private R&D investments.
As part of the process for fleshing out the proposed three-stage approach it is vital for a complementary relationship to be created between the various links of the innovation chain. An assessment has to be made of flagship companies in the Flemish automotive industry with a view to developing suitable initiatives. It is important to understand what position companies have exactly in these international value chains so as to be able to lend them support within these contexts. Progress also has to be made on developing cross-border cooperation initiatives while maximum use should be made of European programmes, such as 'Factories of the Future', the European cluster policy and the Green Cars Initiative...
The VRWI agrees with the recommendation that the bulk of innovation investments should continue to be earmarked for 'solid' R&D initiatives, and the administration has a key roll to play in rolling out new mobility concepts. According to the VRWI it is enough for value-adding opportunities to be created for Flanders but this does not rule out foreign partners also playing a role in this endeavour.
The VRWI urges the Flemish Government to take full account of these recommendations in any initiatives and measures it takes for the automotive sector.