2025 FKFS Conference started successfully

Prof. Andreas Wagner, Chairman of the FKFS Board of Management and Chair of the Institute of Automotive Engineering (IFS) at the University of Stuttgart, welcomed the international participants at the Filderhalle in Leinfelden-Echterdingen this morning. The conference features more than 30 exciting technical presentations, each highlighting the latest advances in vehicle aerodynamics and thermal management. 

The first highlight of the day was the inspiring keynote speech by Tina Zhou, CEO of Gasgoo International. Her speech, entitled “The Secrets of China's Automotive Industry Competitiveness,” offered exciting insights into the strategies and success factors of the Chinese automotive industry. Tina Zhou explained how China creates ideal conditions for innovation through a supportive political framework, targeted financial incentives, and well-trained professionals with a high willingness to take entrepreneurial risks. She also highlighted the intensive investment in research and development and the strong competition among more than 80 OEMs, which further promote efficiency and innovation. According to Zhou, China increasingly views the car as a mobile home and digital companion. For younger target groups in particular, smart, digital features are an indispensable part of the driving experience.

In addition to a trade exhibition, the FKFS Conference also offers exciting live demonstrations at our Center for Climate Comfort in Filderstadt. There, participants can experience the Climatic Wind Tunnel and the Climatic Chamber. They also have the opportunity to take part in two workshops on the topics of “Particle Image Velocimetry for Cabin Flows” and “Comfort Seat Evaluation.”

Last but not least, the ECARA Award will be presented in the evening during the networking event. This award is given annually by the European Car Aerodynamics Research Association for outstanding achievements in final theses by students and doctoral candidates in the field of automotive aerodynamics, aeroacoustics and thermal management. It serves to promote aerodynamic and aeroacoustic research relevant to the European automotive industry. 

After this successful start, we are now looking forward to the rest of the day and tomorrow's second day of the FKFS Conference.