Vibe Credit Union Showplace, Novi, Michigan, United States
October 27–29, 2026

Plenary Session

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Fireside Chat: Investing in the automotive future – Do we have our priorities right?

27 Oct 2026
Plenary Discussions - The "Business of Technology" in Automotive
The automotive industry is undergoing significant transformation, yet investment – from venture capital to technology PoCs and startup partnership - has stagnated. Are today's investment priorities aligned with the challenges OEMs and suppliers will face over the next decade? Join leaders for a candid discussion on how automakers evaluate emerging technologies and where startups are creating real value. From AI and software-defined vehicles to manufacturing, autonomy, electrification, batteries, and next-generation mobility, this panel will explore where the industry's smart investments are being made and where critical opportunities may still be overlooked. Whether you're a corporate leader looking for strategic advantage, an engineer developing for the future, or an entrepreneur seeking investment, this discussion will provide valuable insight into the next phase of automotive innovation. *Insights shared during this session are for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as professional, financial, or regulatory advice.
Chairperson
Liz Kerton, CEO, founder, independent director - Autotech Council
Speakers
Brendon Kim, managing director and head of Hyundai Cradle Silicon Valley - Hyundai CRADLE
Sören Wildemann, SDV Customer & Ecosystem Engagements - Robert Bosch LLC