#WeDriveEU - The Polish aftermarket contributes to the European debate on the future of the automotive industry
Millions of vehicles remain operational thanks to parts manufacturers, distributors, workshops, and service companies that ensure their safety and reliability. The #WeDriveEU campaign, initiated by FIGIEFA and partners, highlights the importance of this sector. A month after its launch, the initiative continues to resonate in the European debate on the future of the automotive industry. The campaign's message is clear: without a strong and competitive aftermarket , it's difficult to talk about safe transport or a functioning economy.
The power of the industry
The FIGIEFA campaign is based on facts. The five pillars of #WeDriveEU demonstrate why a well-functioning car repair and parts market is important for drivers and the entire European economy:
- Competitiveness – a competitive repair and parts market helps lower the costs of car ownership. There are 285 million vehicles on the road in the EU, with an average age of 12.3 years.
- resilience - the market is made up of nearly 900,000 companies that provide access to parts and repairs even during crises or supply problems.
- people and communities - the sector provides employment to 3.26 million people and supports local workshops and the development of employee qualifications.
Circular economy and sustainable development – repairing and remanufacturing parts reduces carbon dioxide emissions and raw material consumption. This saves approximately 150,000 tons of materials from being recycled each year.
Affordable mobility – competition between repair shops and parts manufacturers helps keep repair prices down. This is especially important, especially since electric car repairs are on average 30-35% more expensive than those for combustion cars.
These data demonstrate that the independent aftermarket isn't merely a complement to the automotive sector. It's a crucial element, responsible for maintaining mobility, supporting the competitiveness of the European economy, and providing drivers with access to services on competitive terms. Without it, efficient transportation, road safety, or the freedom to choose a vehicle repair location would be difficult.
At the same time, the #WeDriveEU campaign highlights issues that will be crucial to the future of the industry: the Right to Repair , fair competition, access to vehicle data, and the development of a circular economy. These solutions will determine whether the independent aftermarket can continue to develop and meet the needs of drivers and businesses.
Poland is part of this history
The Association of Automotive Parts Distributors and Manufacturers has also been actively involved in FIGIEFA's activities for years. This allows the experience and perspective of the Polish market to be present in the European discussion on the directions of automotive development.
"The #WeDriveEU campaign shows that the future of the automotive industry doesn't end with car production. Equally important are the companies that supply parts, repair vehicles, and keep them running every day. We are pleased that, as a FIGIEFA member, we can participate in this discussion and work together to advance solutions that foster a competitive and modern aftermarket," says Tomasz Bęben, President of the Association of Automotive Parts Distributors and Manufacturers and a member of the FIGIEFA board.
There are specific companies behind the European voice
The #WeDriveEU campaign demonstrates that the strength of the European aftermarket lies with entrepreneurs. In Poland, this voice is shared by SDCM member companies – parts manufacturers, distributors, technology and service providers who develop the market and provide solutions for millions of vehicle users every day.
This wouldn't be possible without the collaboration of the entire industry. Parts manufacturers, distributors, repair shops, and technology providers demonstrate the crucial role the independent aftermarket plays. When the industry speaks with one voice, it's easier to highlight the challenges businesses face and collaborate on solutions that benefit the entire sector.
Together for the automotive industry!
Source: official website of the FIGIEFA "WeDriveEU" campaign https://wedriveeu.com/
