FCAI welcomed delegates from across the global automotive industry to Sydney last month as it hosted the annual OICA General Meeting, drawing senior representatives from peak automotive organisations in the United States, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Europe and Asia, including China. The gathering provided an opportunity for industry leaders to compare market trends, discuss policy settings and examine shared challenges facing manufacturers and consumers worldwide.
In his presentation, FCAI chief executive Tony Weber outlined Australia’s unique market structure and the pressures shaping industry policy. He highlighted Australia’s vast geography and limited public transport infrastructure, noting that 79 per cent of Australians drive to work and that vehicles remain essential for mobility in regional and outer suburban areas. Tony also pointed to the rapid shift toward SUVs and utes, the increasing cost of new vehicles and the challenges posed by ambitious emissions targets in a mature and diverse fleet.
He emphasised that while the FCAI supports decarbonisation, Australia faces significant hurdles in lifting EV uptake. Total cost of ownership concerns, charging availability and consumer preferences for larger vehicles continue to weigh on demand, even as supply expands rapidly.
The strong international turnout demonstrated the value placed on Australia’s perspective within OICA. Australia’s hosting of the OICA meeting occurred in partnership with the Truck Industry Council.