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Podcast | Staffel 2
Episode 16
In the sixteenth episode of season two of the IAA TRANSPORTATION PODCAST, we welcome Hildegard Müller, President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).
In the sixteenth episode of the second season of the IAA TRANSPORTATION PODCAST, we welcome Hildegard Müller, President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA). Just a few days before IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026, we discuss where the commercial vehicle, transport, and logistics sector stands in its transformation, what the industry has already delivered—and what political and infrastructural conditions must now be created so that the path toward climate-neutral mobility can continue to be economically successful.
Hildegard Müller provides insights into the vital importance of transport and logistics for the economy and society. At the same time, the industry faces the challenge of further reducing its share of road transport carbon emissions.
The conversation therefore focuses heavily on the transformation of the commercial vehicle sector. Hildegard Müller explains the progress the industry has made in recent years—from electric trucks to hydrogen trucks. We also discuss why technology neutrality is not an end in itself for her, but rather why different solutions are necessary for different operating conditions. In addition to battery-electric drives, the discussion covers hydrogen and renewable fuels, as well as digitalization and autonomous driving.
One of the biggest challenges remains infrastructure. We talk about why missing grid connections and charging points are slowing down the rollout of electric commercial vehicles and why infrastructure must precede the vehicle rollout.
Furthermore, we discuss the economic framework conditions of the transformation and the international competitiveness of Germany as an industrial location. From red tape and energy prices to taxes, levies, and CO₂ fleet regulations, we address how climate protection, growth, prosperity, and employment can be interconnected.
We also look ahead to IAA TRANSPORTATION 2026 with formats such as the IAA Conference, IAA Experience, Startup Area, and the Drivers and Families Weekend.
The IAA TRANSPORTATION Podcast is a production of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA).
Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible and wherever else you get your podcasts.
