Future Mobility: Rüdiger Grube on the Future of Cars, Rail and Aviation
The future of mobility will be shaped by electromobility, autonomous driving and digitisation. At the same time, however, the German automotive industry is facing major challenges. In a new edition of Chat Club Aktuell, Prof. Dr. Rüdiger Grube outlines the developments that companies should be aware of.
As the former CEO of Deutsche Bahn and a long-standing board member of Daimler and DASA, Grube has a unique perspective on developments in road, rail, and air transport.
The German automotive industry under pressure
Rüdiger Grube analyses the current situation of the German automotive industry. He describes the competitive environment as challenging, citing high energy prices, rising social security contributions and increasing tax burdens as factors that are putting pressure on Germany as a business location. However, he also recognises the industry's technological strengths. Germany has solutions in autonomous driving and electromobility that are competitive on an international scale.
What will future mobility look like?
Grube explains why the car will change fundamentally in the coming years. Electric powertrains, autonomous vehicles and on-demand mobility will have a lasting impact on personal transportation. His views on autonomous driving are particularly noteworthy.
Digitisation of rail
Deutsche Bahn is also undergoing a profound transformation. According to Grube, digitisation and automation will make rail operations more reliable and efficient in the long term. In the short term, however, he sees other priorities. Punctuality, reliability and service are crucial to regaining passengers’ trust.
Sustainability as a Driver of Change in Aviation
Aviation is also changing. New engine technologies, sustainable fuels and more efficient aircraft are expected to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions. Fully autonomous flying, on the other hand, is less relevant than technological progress in efficiency and sustainability in the foreseeable future, according to Grube.
Why this matters for companies
The future of mobility affects far more than just the transport sector. The automotive industry, logistics, infrastructure, energy supply and industrial value creation are all set to undergo fundamental changes. In order to remain competitive, companies must assess technological developments, regulatory frameworks, and new business models at an early stage.
This interview with Rüdiger Grube provides an analysis of the current situation and a well-founded outlook on mobility in the decades to come.
👉Watch the full interview to find out which developments will shape the future of cars, railways and aviation.