The automotive industry is undergoing significant changes as artificial intelligence and connected technologies transform manufacturing processes and mobility. Adapting to these developments and creating competitive solutions were among the topics discussed at Romanian Automotive Forum & Awards 2026, held on November 10 in Bucharest, with the National Institute for Research and Development in Informatics – ICI Bucharest in attendance.
The Institute took part in the panel “Technology, Electrification & Smart Mobility”, which focused on the role of digital technologies in transforming the automotive industry. The discussion brought together representatives from the automotive and technology sectors and covered topics such as artificial intelligence, semiconductor development, connected mobility, and the digitalisation of industrial processes.
A key topic was the importance of collaboration among industry, research organisations, and educational institutions in developing and adopting new technologies. In this context, ICI Bucharest highlighted the role of applied research and advanced digital infrastructures in supporting companies seeking to integrate AI-based solutions and modernize their operations.
Organized by The Diplomat-Bucharest and Automotive Today, the event marked its ninth edition and featured two discussion sessions focused on industrial competitiveness, European policies, and technological transformation. The program concluded with the Automotive Awards for Excellence Gala, which recognized the achievements of companies, projects, and professionals in the automotive industry.
Developing and testing artificial intelligence solutions requires computing resources and technical expertise that not all companies have at their disposal. The services offered by the European BSC AI Factory project to address these needs were presented by the National Institute for Research and Development in Informatics – ICI Bucharest at GoTech World 2026, held on 10–11 November at Romexpo.
How can virtual and augmented reality technologies help people prepare for emergencies, improve interactions with public services, or create new ways of learning? These were among the applications presented by the National Institute for Research and Development in Informatics – ICI Bucharest at the “1st Regional Workshop to Strengthen the Central, Eastern European and Balkan Virtual Worlds Ecosystem”, held in Budapest, Hungary.
How can Europe prepare for the security challenges of the coming years, amid geopolitical instability, hybrid threats, and the rapid development of new technologies? These questions were at the heart of the conference “Towards Europe 2040: How Can We Anticipate Change and Build a Secure and Resilient Future?”, held in Bucharest on 9 November 2026 at the European Parliament Liaison Office in Romania.
