The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has named Joachim Drees, CEO of MAN Truck & Bus, its chair for 2018 as elected by the board.

Joachim Dress, chair of the ACEA’s Commercial Vehicle Board for 2018

Mr Drees takes over the role – elected on a yearly term – from Preston Feight, president of DAF Trucks, and brings a wide breadth of experience including managerial positions in the Daimler Truck Group and at Mercedes-Benz Trucks. He has been CEO of MAN SE and of MAN Truck & Bus AG since 2015. He is also a member of the Management of Volkswagen Truck & Bus GmbH.

Commenting on his new role, Mr Drees said: “Our priorities for the year ahead include further reducing CO2 emissions from road transport and continuing our commitment to safety improvements – as well as harnessing the potential of connected and automated driving to contribute to both these goals.”

His appointment comes as 2018 marks a landmark year for Europe’s commercial vehicle industry, with legislation in the pipeline for the introduction of standards for CO2 emissions from heavy-duty vehicles and the revision of the General Safety Regulation.

Another focus area for ACEA this year will be to continue its work in the field of truck platooning, including looking at multi-brand possibilities.

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