The event, broadcast on LinkedIn, brought together experts to discuss key strategies in electromobility and sustainability, highlighting the crucial role of the automotive sector in addressing the global challenge of climate change.
The automotive industry is at a pivotal moment, facing the challenge of reducing its environmental impact and adopting new technologies that will redefine mobility. Today, the transport sector accounts for 23% of global CO2 emissions, yet it remains fundamental to economic development and people's quality of life.
In this context, Inchcape Americas organised the first edition of the discussion panel "Innovation in Motion: dialogues on sustainability and technology in the automotive industry" to explore the strategies driving this change. Moderated by Carolina Escobar, a renowned Chilean journalist, the event featured Laura Viegas, Director of Communications and Responsible Business at Inchcape Americas; José Miguel Silva, Regional Director of New Energy Vehicles at Inchcape Americas; and Gustavo Hunter, Head of the Sustainable Mobility Department at ANAC (National Automotive Association of Chile).
Laura Viegas opened the discussion by sharing the actions Inchcape is taking to lead the change: "We are the world's leading independent distributor and are committed to being the greenest route to market," emphasising that "the motorisation rate in most countries in the region is below 15%, compared to over 80% in developed countries. We have the opportunity to grow sustainably."
The panellists discussed four key aspects of the mobility transition: government regulations, tax incentives, cost reductions, and infrastructure improvements. José Miguel Silva highlighted the policies promoting electromobility: "In Costa Rica, electric vehicles are exempt from tariffs and benefit from VAT discounts, which narrow the price gap with combustion vehicles. In Colombia, vehicle restrictions in congested cities allow hybrid and electric vehicles to circulate freely."
Meanwhile, Gustavo Hunter emphasised: "Although market penetration is still low, sales of new energy vehicles have increased significantly, with 100% growth in the past year, so we see that this is improving," explained Hunter.
The event underscored Inchcape's commitment to sustainability and innovation, as well as its proactive measures to lead the shift towards greener and more efficient mobility.
Click here to watch the discussion panel.