SGESCO-MAX’s Managing Director, Scott McPherson, recently attended Germany’s bi-ennial IAA TRANSPORTATION conference and exhibition to discover the latest technologies and developments in the transport and commercial vehicle sector.
The five-day event held in Hannover attracted 1,650 exhibitors from 41 countries (up 21% on 2022) and 145,000 visitors (up 10% on 2022). IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024 was a valuable opportunity for Scott to meet with existing partners and suppliers; learn about new technologies, solutions, directions and challenges of the sector; and review SGESCO-MAX’s strategy in line with global market directions.
“In Europe, the transport and logistic industry is going through significant transformation,” said Scott. “The change is being driven by climate and government imperatives around emissions, efficiency and safety converging with new computing technologies including AI from global automotive giants and new players.”
Over 145 new products were launched at IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024.
“A key takeaway from the event is how artificial intelligence, automation, and digital platforms are boosting efficiency, safety and sustainability in transportation,” said Scott.
“AI technologies are improving the safety and efficiency of autonomous transport systems with commercialization of autonomous logistics trucks already underway by Continental, one of our key suppliers,” noted Scott.
“My 2022 trip to IAA Transportation led to SGESCO-MAX creating the MAX-SAFE View range of AI blind spot detection solutions for heavy vehicles. This trip has reinforced the role AI can play in improving safety and efficiency,” said Scott.
Europe was also leading the world in adopting blind spot monitoring solutions mandating the Direct Vision Standard for heavy vehicles in 2023, said Scott.
“With Australia being a signatory to various UN agreements, organisations operating here will need to comply and have in vehicle information systems to detect pedestrians and cyclists,” added Scott.
“These innovations and regulations are likely to impact Australia in the coming two to five years.
“But more than that, many of our major companies will look to adopt these new technologies in keeping with their safety and environmental/sustainability goals and values – as well as the economic benefits that will ensue from improved efficiencies.
“It’s an exciting time to be in the industry,” said Scott. “With my background in technology and SGESCO-MAX’s ethos, we are a company focussed on embracing tech and working with global inventors to produce innovative solutions that will help transform the Australian T&L industry.”