Europe To Push on AI-Driven Cars Urges EU’s Von der Leyen
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged a stronger and more unified push for artificial intelligence in the automotive sector, calling on EU member states to push on AI-driven cars. Speaking at the Italian Tech Week in Turin, one of Europe’s key automotive innovation hubs, von der Leyen warned that Europe must act fast to avoid falling behind the United States and China in the race toward autonomous vehicle technology.
Von der Leyen’s Vision for AI in Mobility
In her speech, von der Leyen outlined a clear goal: to make artificial intelligence central to Europe’s transportation future. She said AI-driven cars could help improve safety, reduce emissions, and create a smarter, more connected transport network.
The Commission president described her strategy as an “AI-first approach”, adding that this also means “safety first.” She called on member states and industries to collaborate on developing autonomous systems that are reliable, ethical, and tailored to Europe’s unique road environments.
Key Initiatives Proposed
1. Network of Test Cities
Von der Leyen proposed setting up a network of European cities to pilot autonomous driving technology in real-world conditions. More than 60 Italian mayors have reportedly shown interest in hosting trials.
These pilot cities would help researchers, automakers, and regulators gather real-time data to improve traffic flow, safety systems, and the integration of AI-based mobility into existing infrastructure.
2. Made-in-Europe Vehicle Technologies
The European Commission plans to support vehicle designs and technologies developed within Europe. The goal is to strengthen local industry, protect jobs, and ensure European automakers remain competitive against global rivals.
3. Simplified Regulations Across the EU
A major barrier to faster progress is the lack of unified rules across member states. Von der Leyen called for harmonised testing standards, safety certifications, and legal frameworks to allow AI-driven cars to operate across borders without unnecessary delays.
4. Better Connectivity and Data Management
She also highlighted the importance of secure data-sharing systems and high-speed digital infrastructure. Connected vehicles will need seamless access to traffic, mapping, and environmental data to function safely and efficiently.
Why the Push Matters
Keeping Up with the US and China
Europe’s automotive sector remains strong, but its development of autonomous and AI-powered cars has lagged behind the pace of innovation in the United States and China. Both countries have already invested heavily in autonomous mobility startups and road-testing programs.
Von der Leyen warned that Europe cannot afford to become dependent on non-European technologies and must invest in its own capabilities.
Supporting Industrial Competitiveness
The automotive industry employs millions of Europeans. Investing in AI-driven vehicles is not just about innovation but also about protecting those jobs through industrial transformation.
By building European expertise in AI and autonomous systems, the EU can remain competitive in the global shift toward smart, sustainable mobility.
Improving Safety and Efficiency
AI-driven vehicles could dramatically reduce road accidents caused by human error, which accounts for over 90 percent of all traffic incidents. Smarter traffic management could also reduce congestion, emissions, and fuel consumption, creating safer and greener cities.
Challenges Ahead
- Fragmented Regulation
Different safety rules, testing standards, and liability laws across EU member states make it difficult for automakers to deploy the same systems everywhere. - Technology Readiness
Autonomous vehicles still face challenges when operating in complex European cities with mixed traffic, narrow streets, and unpredictable weather. - Data Protection and Cybersecurity
AI-driven cars collect vast amounts of data. Protecting user privacy and preventing cyberattacks will be essential to gaining public trust. - Public Confidence
Many drivers and pedestrians remain uneasy about self-driving vehicles. Public education and transparency will be key to acceptance.
What Comes Next
The European Commission plans to release a roadmap in 2025 outlining steps toward continent-wide approval of AI-driven vehicle systems.
This will likely include:
- New rules for testing and licensing autonomous vehicles
- Incentives for AI research and development
- Funding for smart infrastructure and charging networks
- Partnerships with automakers, universities, and technology companies
Pilot programs are expected to launch in selected European cities starting in late 2025, testing autonomous buses, delivery vans, and urban taxi fleets.
The Bigger Picture
Von der Leyen’s push reflects a broader shift in European policy toward digital transformation and climate neutrality.
AI-driven mobility supports the EU’s Green Deal goals by promoting cleaner and more efficient transport. It also aligns with the bloc’s digital strategy, which aims to position Europe as a global leader in ethical and responsible artificial intelligence.
If successful, this initiative could help Europe close the innovation gap and lead a new generation of safe, sustainable, and data-driven mobility.
Conclusion
Ursula von der Leyen’s call for an AI-first approach to transportation represents a turning point for Europe’s automotive sector. By combining safety, innovation, and collaboration, the European Union aims to build the world’s most trusted and advanced ecosystem for AI-driven cars.
With unified regulations, strong industrial backing, and clear political support, Europe could soon reclaim its position at the forefront of global automotive innovation.
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