The EU-ABC, which represents the interests of the European business community across Southeast Asia, is optimistic about ASEAN's position as an automotive hub. This is especially true as we move towards a new normal, with industry leaders looking to diversify away from China and build supply chain resilience. ASEAN's automotive industry has the potential to be more competitive internationally and the report argues that cleaner technology adoption: improving fuel economy and lowering emissions, could be the way forward.
Chris Humphrey, Executive Director of the EU-ABC added: "ASEAN's mobility sector stands at an inflection point, with the predicted growth[1] in vehicle sales offering both challenges and opportunities for the region. In order for the major and aspiring automotive hubs in the region to remain competitive and continue to attract quality investments from Europe, there is a compelling need for Southeast Asia to modernise its approach to automotive production, especially with regards to moving to cleaner technology adoption: improving fuel economy and adopting higher emission standards."
According to the EU-ABC's report there are clear social and economic benefits to the people of ASEAN if the region transforms its mobility sector. Adopting higher emission standards can boost the export competitiveness of ASEAN-made vehicles in key export markets (Australia Japan, New Zealand) which are adopting/implementing similar standards. Furthermore, by improving fuel economy standards, more fuel-efficient cars use less fuel to travel the same distance. This would allow consumers to enjoy cost-savings in fuel expenditure.
Socially, adopting higher emission standards such as the Euro 6 can reduce air pollution. According to Thailand Development Research Institute, the main cause of Bangkok's air pollution is the habit of using private vehicles instead of public transport. Already, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha also spoke about the availability of cleaner and more efficient mobility alternatives such as electric and hybrid vehicles.
Martin Hayes President at Robert Bosch SEA & Vice Chairman, EU- ABC said: "The approach to powertrain technology must be open, as all modern powertrain technologies have the capability to reduce carbon emissions. Bosch and other firms in the European automotive industry have been continuously and substantially investing in research and development to further the innovations on all engine types. Following the recommendations laid out in the report, we remain committed to partner with ASEAN member states to capitalise on the potential of all available technological pathways and facilitate the development of environmentally friendly transport system in the region".
To reduce emissions and mitigate the adverse effects of increasing car ownership, the EU-ASEAN Business Council thus recommends the adoption of different low-emission technologies across Southeast Asia. Solutions include using better engine technologies through higher emission standards and fuel additives. By adopting more environmentally friendly options early, it would lead to lower pollution rates and hence ensure a more sustainable economic development for ASEAN in the long run, whilst also opening up more export markets for vehicles manufactured in the region.
About the EU-ASEAN Business Council
The EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) is the primary and sole voice for European business covering all of the ASEAN region.
It is recognised by the European Commission and the ASEAN Secretariat and is an accredited entity under Annex 2 of the ASEAN Charter. Independent of both bodies, the Council has been established to help promote the interests of European businesses operating within ASEAN and to advocate for changes in policies and regulations which would help promote trade and investment between Europe and the ASEAN region. The Council works on a sectorial and cross-industry basis to help improve the investment and trading conditions for European Businesses in the ASEAN region through influencing policy and decision makers throughout the region and in the EU, as well as acting as a platform for the exchange of information and ideas amongst its members and regional players within the ASEAN region.
The EU-ABC's membership consists of large European Multi-National Corporations and the nine European Chambers of Commerce from around Southeast Asia. The EU-ABC represents a diverse range of European industries cutting across almost every commercial sphere from car manufacturing through to financial services and including Fast Moving Consumer Goods and high-end electronics and communications. Our members all have a common interest in enhancing trade, commerce and investment between Europe and ASEAN.
The Executive Director of the EU-ASEAN Business Council is Mr Chris Humphrey, and its Chairman is Mr Donald Kanak. The Council is led by an elected Board consisting of corporate leaders representing a range of important industry sectors and representatives of the European Chambers of Commerce.
[1] http://www.asean-autofed.com/files/AAF_Statistics_ytd_nov2020.pdf
Source: Precious communications