CLEPA renews leadership and calls for stronger industry-policy cooperation

• Matthias Zink, CEO Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler, confirmed for a new term as President of CLEPA
• 9 organisations from the industry joined the association as new members

CLEPA, the European association of automotive suppliers has re-elected Mr Matthias Zink, CEO Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler, for a new term as President during its 2025 General Assembly, held this week in Brussels. Addressing the membership, he noted the strengthening cooperation within the industry, as well as increased dialogue with policymakers, which is crucial as the sector faces mounting pressure from global competition, evolving trade dynamics, and overregulation:

“I believe in the innovative strength and technological expertise of the European automotive supply industry. That is why I joined CLEPA back in 2018 as a member. Now, I am looking forward to a second term as president. I want to thank all CLEPA members for trusting me during these crucial times for the future of the European automotive industry,” said Matthias Zink. 

“There are many challenges ahead of us. But more importantly, through our hard work, new opportunities have opened up. More than ever before, policy makers are listening and responding to our ideas and proposals,” continued Mr Zink. “At this moment, trust, openness, and unity are more important than ever. That is exactly what I experience when I visit national associations and speak with our members. I also want to thank the CLEPA organisation for their ongoing support, commitment and high-quality work across the teams. This strong foundation gives me confidence and optimism in facing the challenges ahead.”

“Europe is at a turning point driven by the transition and increased global competition. Automotive suppliers are at the forefront of innovation, developing the components and solutions for clean vehicles that will propel Europe’s transition to greener and smarter transportation. Our expertise puts us in a unique position to shape this shift in a way that also bolsters competitiveness and drives growth.”

More than 100+ participants, representing national associations and corporate members across the automotive supply industry, joined the Assembly, alongside high-level EU officials. The agenda spotlighted urgent trade issues, the shift toward connected and automated mobility, and the future of EU automotive innovation.

Ms Pauline Weinzierl, Head of Unit, European Commission’s DG TRADE highlighted the need for ensuring economic security while maintaining Europe’s strategic autonomy amid growing global competition. Ms Jane Amilhat, Head of Unit, DG RTD and Mr Max Lemke, Head of Unit ‘IoT’, DG CNECT both provided keynotes and participated in the panel on ‘Perspectives on future EU automotive research & innovation’.  

CLEPA Secretary General, Mr Benjamin Krieger, saw the approval of the association’s membership composition and formal matters, and reflected on the challenges ahead:

“Europe’s climate ambitions are politically bold, but we must reassess the technical and economic feasibility of CO₂ regulations to make them realistic and people-centred. Automotive suppliers are vital to the green and digital transition, and an industry under pressure cannot deliver without a technology-neutral approach that drives innovation, demand, and jobs. A pragmatic, real-world dialogue with policymakers is essential.”

The General Assembly also confirmed new and re-elected members of the CLEPA Board, and recognised 9 new members, as listed below.

New full members:
BACC
HENGST
HL Mando
HORSE
Murata
Veoneer

New associate members:
OXA
Mobileye
Alcoa Wheels

The General Assembly reaffirmed CLEPA’s strategic commitment to advocate for a resilient, innovative, and competitive automotive supply industry in Europe, calling for continued collaboration with policy makers to ensure sustainable progress.