Automotive Cluster Bulgaria and GATE Institute Host Joint Webinar on Data Spaces and Catena-X

On 15 October 2026, Automotive Cluster Bulgaria and GATE Institute jointly hosted an online webinar entitled “Data Spaces: How & Why? / Catena-X”, focusing on the role of data spaces in the digital transformation of the automotive industry. The event brought together business representatives who had the opportunity to learn about new approaches to secure data sharing and their potential to foster collaboration across supply chains. During the webinar, Dr. Atanas Stavrev from GATE Institute introduced the key concepts behind data spaces, their practical applications, and the benefits of their adoption in industry. Particular attention was given to Catena-X, an ecosystem designed to enable standardised and secure data exchange across the automotive sector. It supports collaboration between companies and creates opportunities for improved traceability, quality management, and digital integration throughout supply chains. The webinar highlighted the importance of data spaces for the automotive industry and the opportunities they create for more efficient cooperation between companies. The presentation of Catena-X provided valuable context for the development of common data exchange standards in the sector and the growing importance of digital connectivity across supply chains. The topic is particularly relevant for Bulgarian automotive companies working with international partners and seeking to meet the evolving requirements for digital integration. Eligible companies can access combined European funding of approximately €20,000–€25,000 to accelerate the adoption and integration process. Automotive Cluster Bulgaria continues to support its members and partners in accessing initiatives that promote digitalisation, innovation, and competitiveness in the automotive sector. Companies interested in learning more about opportunities to join Catena-X can contact GATE Institute directly and explore the service details here: https://gate-ai.eu/frame/catenax-readiness. Companies interested in the presentation can find it here:: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wLFb-SKtk4nPoDFXxtlUBl8DYOgeiXFG/view?usp=sharing

Sensata Marks 25 Years in Bulgaria

Stakeholder event in Sofia marks a quarter century of innovation, investment and growth while reaffirming Sensata’s commitment to Bulgaria’s future. Sensata Technologies celebrated 25 years in Bulgaria with a stakeholder event in Sofia attended by government and business leaders, educational partners, suppliers and members of the company’s global leadership team. The event marked a significant milestone in Sensata’s journey in Bulgaria and the culmination of a year-long programme of celebrations for employees and their families across the company’s locations in Botevgrad, Plovdiv and Sofia. Since establishing operations in Bulgaria in 2001, Sensata has become the country’s largest automotive company and one of its leading technology manufacturers. Today, approximately 3,500 employees support engineering, research and development, testing, manufacturing, customer support and business services. Over the past quarter century, Sensata Bulgaria has become one of the company’s most important European locations, helping customers address complex challenges across mobility, industrial technology and electrification. Teams in Bulgaria support customers across our automotive, commercial equipment and industrial sectors, designing, developing and manufacturing technologies that help vehicles and equipment operate safely, efficiently and reliably. These include advanced sensors that monitor temperature, pressure, position, speed and electrical conditions for both traditional internal combustion vehicles and next-generation electric platforms. Speaking at the event, Stephan von Schuckmann, CEO of Sensata Technologies, highlighted the strategic importance of Bulgaria within the company’s global operations. “Today, approximately 3,500 colleagues work across Botevgrad, Plovdiv and Sofia, making Bulgaria one of the most important locations in our European footprint and an essential part of how we serve customers around the world. The foundation built over the last 25 years is exceptionally strong, with world-class talent, deep technical expertise and a culture that continues to innovate and adapt.” He added, “We remain committed to investing in innovation and building the capabilities and partnerships that will help create opportunity and growth for years to come.” In recent years, Sensata Bulgaria has earned external recognition for operational excellence and workplace culture, including Capital’s Factory of the Year award and Manager Magazine’s Team of the Year award. Tommy Ver Elst, General Manager of Sensata Bulgaria, emphasised the role employees have played in the company’s success and the opportunities that lie ahead. “The first 25 years have given us a strong foundation. Now, we’re focused on building what’s next. New products and technologies are coming to Bulgaria, and our teams continue to find smarter and safer ways to serve our customers and support our communities.  “As we celebrate this milestone, I want to thank our employees across Botevgrad, Plovdiv and Sofia. Their commitment and resilience have built the strong reputation that Sensata enjoys today. Teamwork has always been at the heart of our success, and this anniversary belongs to every colleague who has contributed to that journey.” As markets and technologies evolve, Sensata remains focused on advancing mobility and industrial technology through innovations in sensing, electrification and automation. The company continues to invest in the capabilities and partnerships needed for long-term growth and to address customers’ changing needs. Twenty-five years after establishing operations in Bulgaria, Sensata remains confident in the country’s talent and industrial potential, and looks forward to the next chapter of growth and partnership. About Sensata Technologies Sensata Technologies is a global industrial technology company striving to create a safer, cleaner, more efficient and electrified world. Through its broad portfolio of mission-critical sensors, electrical protection components and sensor-rich solutions, Sensata helps its customers address increasingly complex engineering and operating performance requirements. With more than 16,000 employees and global operations in 13 countries, Sensata serves customers in the automotive, industrial, aerospace, defense, and commercial equipment markets. Learn more at Sensata and follow Sensata on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X.