from Ralf Schäfer, Driving Vision News
There’s been a lot of activity in China
about car lights lately! On 25–26 June was IFAL, the International Forum on
Automotive Lighting—in many ways, it’s China’s version of ISAL or VISION. Then
on On 27–28 June, the first International Executive Summit on Automotive
Lighting Innovation Technology and Standardisation took place in Shanghai, in
conjunction with the fifth Sino-Europe Conference on Automotive Lighting
Regulations and Standards. The goal was to strengthen communication between
Chinese industry and standardisation bodies and the international vehicle
lighting community.
About 50 participants attended the event for the full docket of presentations and
panel discussions. Presenters and participants included Chinese and international
car- and setmakers, as well as Chinese and international standardisation
representatives and DVN-affiliated consultant Ralf Schaefer. And a launch
meeting of the Vehicle Lighting Executive Group (VLEG) was held: about 20 key
Chinese and international industry and standardisation experts discussed
specific needs for vehicle lighting in the Chinese market. Input included
highlights of presentations from IFAL and the Summit. Agreement was reached
that accident fatality patterns in China are quite different to those in Europe
and elsewhere, so specific research is needed into vehicle lighting in China. It
was unanimously decided to establish an executive group—VLEG—to guide research
on vehicle lighting in China with special focus on two-wheelers. Count on DVN
to keep you up to date as these efforts take shape.
Meanwhile, this week we’ve got an in-depth report on these meetings. You’ll
also find news of the increasing number and scope of tie-ups, pacts, and
collaboration agreements not only between suppliers, but between traditionally
competing automakers. Clearly the basic topography of the auto industry is
shifting, in new and interesting ways. Has there ever been a more invigourating
time to be in this field? Probably not! We’re glad you’re here with us.
