‘The year 2012 will be challenging especially if the instability in the Eurozone would not be addressed,’ said Marchionne. ‘Our association will further focus its work on three main issues: European industrial policy; sustainable mobility and transport; and international trade relations. These issues are all closely linked as the industry’s capacity to invest and innovate depends on a strong, competitive manufacturing base in Europe.’

Marchionne takes over from Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the Board of Daimler AG and head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division, who served as ACEA President in 2010 and 2011. ‘The European automotive industry is a major employer and invests over 30bn EUR in R&D per year – more than any other industry in Europe’, added Zetsche. ‘The importance of our industry must be reflected in the Union’s economic, transport and trade policies.’