In the run-up to the first Automotive Transformation Conference in Bruneck, the Drive2Transform consortium gathered for a partner meeting and study visit hosted by NOI Techpark Bolzano, offering deep insights into the innovation ecosystem of the South Tyrolean host region.
The day started with a joint Drive2Transform project meeting, where all partners came together to discuss progress and planning for 2026 across all three work packages.
- Under WP1, partners reviewed the upcoming activities on the Transformation Readiness Index and regional updates.
- In WP2, capacity-building formats for companies and institutions were discussed, along with plans for cross-border training modules and online formats.
- WP3 focused on the continuation of expert groups, regional workshops, and future collaboration models to transfer pilot use cases into concrete implementation across the partner regions.
The meeting also included coordination of upcoming milestones — such as the second Automotive Transformation Conference 2026 in Linz, the policy-oriented online format for 2026, and further expert group activities planned throughout 2025/2026.
Partners participated in an interactive workshop session at NOI, where results from all expert groups were jointly reviewed. Within the four transformation fields – Electrification, Autonomous Vehicles, Connectivity, and Platform Economy (Mobility as a Service) – regional perspectives were openly discussed, compared, and evaluated. The session provided valuable input for the next project period and set the framework for the next implementation steps in each region.
Following the workshop, participants enjoyed an on-site study visit through NOI Techpark’s impressive facilities. The guided tour provided a first-hand look at the key innovation areas and services that define South Tyrol’s innovation ecosystem, including:
- Alpha Innovation and TechTransfer Automotive
- Digital Open Data Hub Mobility
- Innovation Management Services
- EDIH (European Digital Innovation Hub)
- Startup Incubator and Acceleration Programs
This combination of strategic discussions, hands-on insights, and cross-regional exchange created strong momentum ahead of the conference in Bruneck.
The day concluded with the transfer to Brunico and a joint dinner among project partners — a perfect bridge to the Automotive Transformation Conference 2025
LINK: see conference report here
A big thank-you goes to our outstanding hosts at NOI Techpark – Vincent Mauroit, Johannes Brunner, and Philipp Frei – for their excellent organization and hospitality throughout the entire conference week.