Welcome to the programme for the 31st FISITA World Automotive Congress, organised by the Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan (JSAE) and FISITA.
FISITA was founded almost 60 years ago on the premise that it is only through international cooperation between engineers, societies and companies that the automotive industry can hope to meet the world's growing demand for mobility of people and goods on a sustainable basis.
Left: Daniel M. Hancock, 2004-2006 FISITA President
Right: Yasuhiro Daisho, FISITA 2006 Congress Chairman
The continuing pace of globalisation in the automotive industry drives us all to seek wider perspectives on every aspect of vehicle design, development, production and usage. At the same time, the world urgently needs vehicle technologies that recognise the mobility requirements of rapidly developing automotive markets, where the issues of affordability, broad fuel quality tolerance, urban congestion, and rural infrastructure are paramount.
Today, with its uniquely powerful network encompassing the automotive engineering societies in 38 countries and the world's leading vehicle manufacturers and automotive companies, FISITA is the organisation best placed to bring the world's automotive professionals together to meet these challenges, and to improve transportation for the benefit of mankind.
We received a record number of submissions for this year's congress: almost one thousand technical paper offers from 39 countries. From these the Technical Committee has assembled a programme of outstanding breadth and quality. In all, more than 650 papers will be presented during FISITA 2006.
For the opening plenary session we have assembled a panel of the top technical leaders from 5 global automakers to discuss the key issues they believe will drive the industry over the coming years. This will be followed during the week by plenary sessions focussing on Environment & Energy, Safety, Manufacturing & Logistics, Traffic Control & Transportation and Collaborative Engineering.
In addition to the high-level scientific and technical information on offer, we have not neglected that other great strength of all FISITA congresses - the opportunity to make contacts and build relationships with colleagues from all over the world. Alongside the technical sessions and the exhibition, we have prepared an inviting programme of social events and cultural visits, the highlight of which will be the spectacular Gala Dinner.
The beautiful and vibrant city of Yokohama, with its rich history of culture and commerce, embodies the international outlook and dynamism of today's Japan, making it a perfect setting for the biggest congress in FISITA's history so far.
Join us this October and play your part in shaping the future of the automobile.
Daniel M. Hancock
FISITA President 2004-2006
Vice President, GM Powertrain, Engineering Operations
Yasuhiro Daisho
FISITA 2006 Congress Chairman
Professor of Waseda University