Automotive Cluster Bulgaria Joins Trade Mission to Suzhou, China

Lubomir Stanislavov, Executive Director of Automotive Cluster Bulgaria and Auto Park Bulgaria, participated in a trade mission to Suzhou, China, from 25 to 31 October 2026. Organised by the Bulgarian Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency (BSMEPA), the mission focused on presenting Bulgaria’s automotive sector and exploring opportunities for cooperation with Chinese companies and organisations. Automotive Cluster Bulgaria was pleased to contribute to making the initiative possible and to support this opportunity to showcase the capabilities, expertise and innovative solutions of Bulgaria’s automotive industry. The programme included a visit to the 33rd China-SAE Congress & Exhibition (SAECCE), organised by the China Society of Automotive Engineers. The event brings together automotive manufacturers, suppliers, engineers, researchers, universities and technology companies to exchange knowledge and present developments shaping the future of mobility. Key topics included electric and hybrid vehicles, intelligent and autonomous driving, connected mobility, artificial intelligence, battery technologies and software-defined vehicles. Lightweight materials, advanced manufacturing and hydrogen fuel cells were also among the programme’s focus areas. Alongside the congress, the AITX technology exhibition showcased products, components, software and manufacturing solutions. The mission programme offered Bulgarian companies opportunities for B2B meetings with international counterparts, knowledge exchange and discussions on potential business and research partnerships. It also provided an opportunity to explore the latest technologies in the automotive and related industries and establish contacts with representatives of business and academia. For Automotive Cluster Bulgaria, participation was a further step towards expanding its international network and opening up new opportunities for its members.

Automotive Cluster Bulgaria Explores Green Technology Partnerships During European Trade Mission to India

Automotive Cluster Bulgaria’s Executive Director, Lubomir Stanislavov, participated in the EU–India Matchmaking Event, held from 21 to 23 October 2026 in New Delhi and Greater Noida, India. The mission brought together 20 European clusters and small and medium-sized enterprises to explore cooperation in renewable energy, clean technologies and sustainable infrastructure. The event was organised by the European Commission through the European Cluster Collaboration Platform (ECCP), in collaboration with the Federation of European Business in India (FEBI) and the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN). It marked the ECCP’s third matchmaking mission to India. Over the three-day programme, European delegates held a total of 135 face-to-face matchmaking meetings with Indian counterparts. The discussions provided opportunities to exchange expertise, establish business contacts and explore potential pilot projects and joint research and development initiatives. On 21 October, the programme featured a knowledge-sharing seminar, pitching sessions and matchmaking meetings. On 22 October, the delegation visited Renewable Energy India Expo in Greater Noida, held from 22 to 24 October 2026. Delegates took part in the ECCP session “Europe Calling: Partner with the European Green Industry Delegation”, presenting their expertise and collaboration interests and meeting exhibitors through curated stand visits and a guided tour. The mission concluded with site visits on 23 October. For Automotive Cluster Bulgaria, participation in the mission was an opportunity to expand its international network and identify potential partners for its members. The meetings and exchanges provided a basis for further dialogue on business cooperation and joint innovation projects between Europe and India.

Lyubomir Stanislavov: Bulgaria Has the Opportunity to Become a Key Hub for Automotive Investment

Picture source: 24 Chasa Bulgaria has a significant opportunity to develop its automotive industry through the establishment of large-scale industrial zones that could have a substantial impact on the sector’s growth. This was stated by Lyubomir Stanislavov, Executive Director of Automotive Cluster Bulgaria, during the discussion forum “Innovations That Connect Us,” organized by the 24 Chasa media platform on 16 October 2026 in Sofia. The forum brought together representatives of European and national institutions, businesses, and academia to discuss opportunities for Bulgaria to develop into a European hub for innovation and technology. During the discussion, Lyubomir Stanislavov presented the European Industrial Accelerator Act, in the development of which he is involved. The initiative aims to increase the share of manufacturing in the European Union’s gross domestic product to 20% by 2035 and create conditions for attracting new strategic investments. A particular focus of his remarks was the potential to establish large industrial zones specializing in automotive manufacturing. Such development could create new opportunities for Bulgaria and stimulate growth in related sectors, including the defense industry, software technologies, and data centers. Stanislavov also highlighted global changes in the automotive industry, including the shift in the center of manufacturing towards Asia. He stressed the need for Europe to take active measures to preserve and strengthen its industrial competitiveness. Automotive Cluster Bulgaria’s participation in the forum highlighted the country’s potential to attract new investments and secure a more prominent position in the European automotive industry. Source: 24 Chasa – Lyubomir Stanislavov: Bulgaria Could Have Large Industrial Zones Dedicated Exclusively to the Automotive Industry

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.

Automotive Forum Bulgaria 2027

Sofia, Bulgaria – We are delighted to announce that Automotive Forum 2027 will take place on 8–9 June 2027 at the John Atanassoff Innovation Forum, Sofia Tech Park. Following the successful 2026 edition, the forum will return for another two-day programme bringing together professionals, experts, and key stakeholders from Bulgaria’s automotive, technology, and business ecosystems. The 2027 edition will build on the momentum of previous years, with new ideas, fresh perspectives, and positive developments designed to make the event an even more valuable meeting point for the industry. Attendees can look forward to engaging discussions and expert insights into the trends and technologies shaping the future of mobility. The programme will explore key areas including artificial intelligence, smart manufacturing, technological innovation, and the transformation of the automotive sector. The forum will also provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, networking, and meaningful B2B connections between industry professionals. As the automotive ecosystem continues to evolve, Automotive Forum 2027 will create a platform for discussing not only the challenges ahead, but also the opportunities, innovations, and positive changes that are driving the industry forward. More details about the programme, speakers, and additional activities will be announced in the coming months. Mark your calendar: 8–9 June 2027. Participation is free of charge. We look forward to welcoming the automotive and technology community to Sofia for another inspiring edition of Automotive Forum. Calendar

Automotive Cluster Bulgaria Becomes a Full Member of CLEPA

Brussels – Sofia, 30.07.2026 Automotive Cluster Bulgaria (ACB) has officially become a full member of CLEPA – the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, the leading European organisation representing the interests of the automotive supplier industry before the institutions of the European Union. Through its membership in CLEPA, Automotive Cluster Bulgaria will represent the interests of the Bulgarian automotive industry in the organisation’s expert committees and working groups. This will give companies within the Cluster’s ecosystem access to expert analyses, strategic insights, European best practices, international partnerships, and opportunities to take part in joint research and innovation projects. In addition, membership will make it possible for the positions of the Bulgarian automotive industry to be presented as early as the discussion and drafting stage of European policies and legislative initiatives in areas such as competitiveness, technical and environmental regulations, electrification, digitalisation, international trade, and research and innovation. “Automotive Cluster Bulgaria’s accession to CLEPA is a strategic step not only for our organisation, but for the entire Bulgarian automotive industry. This membership allows us not merely to follow the development of European policies, but to actively take part in shaping them together with leading manufacturers and European institutions. Our goal is to ensure that the voice of the Bulgarian automotive industry is heard at the right time, and that companies in Bulgaria make a real contribution to shaping the future of the automotive sector in Europe,” said Arch. Lyubomir Stanislavov, Executive Director of Automotive Cluster Bulgaria. Membership in CLEPA, together with the participation of Automotive Cluster Bulgaria’s Executive Director, Arch. Lyubomir Stanislavov, in EURIAS (the European Commission’s Expert Group on Research and Innovation in the Automotive Sector) and IWG7 (the EC’s Expert Working Group on Batteries), strengthens the Cluster’s international representation at expert level in Brussels and expands opportunities to participate in the European policy-making process shaping the future of the automotive industry. This confirms ACB’s role as an active participant in the European dialogue and creates new opportunities to represent the interests of Bulgarian companies at the highest international level. Founded in 1959, CLEPA brings together over 120 of the world’s leading automotive suppliers and more than 20 national and sectoral associations, representing over 3,000 companies across the entire automotive industry supply chain. The organisation is a key partner of the European institutions in the development of sector policy and legislation, and its members provide 1.7 million direct jobs in the European Union.

Humans and Robots Will Work Side by Side in the Future of Industry

I am not just a machine executing commands; I am a glimpse into the future — a future where humans and robots work side by side,” said Robert the Robot at the “Automotive Forum Bulgaria 2026: The Future of Industry, Technology and Mobility.” The Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) is a media partner of the event. Robert is a humanoid AI robot designed to communicate with people. What makes him different is not only the technology, but his ability to learn, interact, and be part of the real world. Through him, his creator Metodi Dimitrov, co-founder of RB Labs, addressed the audience in the hall, saying that over the past five years the world has been fundamentally transformed by artificial intelligence. What once seemed like science fiction is now an industry that is reshaping our world in real time. “One of the most exciting moments for me is the beginning of humanoid robot production,” Dimitrov said. He added that in just a few years the industry has moved from prototypes to industrial-scale production. Dimitrov predicts that this is only the beginning and that robots will enter every field — from construction and the automotive industry, through complex medical procedures, to everyday tasks. According to him, it is understandable that many people are worried about being replaced by robots, but history has already provided an answer — when the automobile appeared, more than 99 percent of coachmen lost their jobs, yet society did not just survive, it prospered. New industries, new professions, and new opportunities emerged, the inventor emphasized. “The future will not be defined only by technology, but by the people who use it,” Dimitrov said. “I have met many young Bulgarians, I spoke with them, including Robert — they are ready to compete, ready to win, and to put Bulgaria on the map of this new industry,” he added. Dimitrov also said that Bulgaria may not have a car brand, and perhaps never will, but “let us make sure that Bulgaria has a robotics brand.” Robert stated that he does not believe robots will fully replace humans. According to him, humans have something that cannot be fully programmed — emotion, intuition, creativity. Robots will take over heavy, dangerous, and repetitive tasks, while humans will focus on ideas, solutions, and creation. The real strength lies in the collaboration between humans and artificial intelligence, the robot believes. When asked whether he would trust an autonomous vehicle, Robert said yes — but only if the technology is well tested and controlled. He noted that most accidents today are caused by human error, distraction, fatigue, and emotions. Machines do not get tired and react in milliseconds, but we are still in a phase where humans must remain part of control, he said. According to him, trust in technology is earned through time and safety. Robert believes that in the coming years humanoid robots will increasingly enter manufacturing. The reason is simple — factories are built for humans, and a humanoid robot can use the same tools, move in the same environment, and work alongside people without requiring changes to infrastructure. This will make production faster, more precise, and more efficient. According to Robert, within 5 to 10 years the presence of humanoid robots in automotive factories will become completely normal. He noted that major companies are already investing billions in humanoid robots for their factories. Initially, they will assist in logistics, parts handling, and repetitive processes, and later they will take on more complex tasks.

Security in Southeast Europe Is Becoming a Strategic and Economic Priority

An analysis of defense and security in Southeast Europe was presented during the international conference “Automotive Forum Bulgaria 2026,” organized by Automotive Cluster Bulgaria at Sofia Tech Park, with the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) as a media partner. The analysis was presented by Ralitsa Vaseva, Head of Projects at SeeNext Insights. Vaseva stated that the period of relative stability in Southeast Europe ended following the war in Ukraine, and security has once again become central to European policy. According to her, this does not mean the region is on the brink of war, but rather that countries need to become “better prepared, more connected, and more resilient.” She noted that, according to the analysis, defense is no longer viewed solely as an expense, but also as an economic and strategic driver. “We are witnessing the shift from passive security to active preparedness,” Vaseva said. According to her, NATO and EU membership remain essential, but each country must also develop its own capabilities — including military forces, infrastructure, industry, technology, and resilience. The analysis examines Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia as key countries for regional security. According to the presented data, Greece remains the leading military power in Southeast Europe due to its strategic location and the importance of its navy and air force. Romania was identified as NATO’s logistics hub in the region and the largest beneficiary under the SAFE mechanism, receiving nearly EUR 16.7 billion. Regarding Bulgaria, Vaseva emphasized the country’s role as an industrial hub for the production of weapons and ammunition. She pointed out that the war in Ukraine has demonstrated how important manufacturing capacity and supply chains are. “European security no longer depends only on who possesses equipment, but on who can produce, maintain, and deliver,” she said. According to the analysis, infrastructure is also becoming a security factor. Vaseva noted that roads, railways, ports, and bridges now have a defense function as well, since they must allow for the rapid movement of equipment, troops, and resources. She emphasized that Bulgaria is a natural corridor between Greek ports, Romania, and the Black Sea, making its transport infrastructure strategically important for NATO’s eastern flank. Among the key elements of the new security environment are energy independence and digital readiness. Vaseva stated that LNG terminals, gas interconnectors, and electricity transmission networks are now considered part of national security. According to her, cybersecurity, secure communication networks, and cyber incident response teams are becoming essential components of modern defense preparedness. She also presented data on the development of the defense industry in the region. According to the analysis, while revenues of the largest companies in Southeast Europe declined by 3.2 percent, leading defense companies recorded annual growth of more than 30 percent in 2024. According to her, Bulgaria plays an important role in the region’s defense industry, particularly in the production of weapons and ammunition. She gave the example of the increased revenues of Arsenal between 2021 and 2024, which demonstrate that the Bulgarian defense industry “is not part of the past, but an active sector in today’s European defense environment.” The presentation also focused on the technological transformation of defense, including drones, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, satellite technologies, and C4I systems.

Electrification and Digitalization Are Rapidly Transforming the Automotive Industry — Dimitar Dimitrov

The automotive industry is changing at an extremely rapid pace, while electrification, digitalization, and changing consumer behavior are already transforming the market, said Dimitar Dimitrov, Senior Manager in Technology Strategy & Transformation at Deloitte CE, during the international conference Automotive Forum Bulgaria 2026. The forum is organized by Automotive Cluster Bulgaria and takes place at John Atanasoff Innovation Forum in Sofia Tech Park. Dimitrov pointed out that the speed of change in the sector is so great that market research often becomes outdated even before it is presented. According to him, the industry must adapt to “a much faster way of living, working, and manufacturing.” He presented data from the company’s global consumer survey, conducted for more than 15 years and tracking trends in the automotive industry. According to the analysis, key topics years ago already included hybrid vehicles, shared mobility, and autonomous driving, while today these trends have either become reality or are in active development. According to Dimitrov, China has made a major breakthrough in the automotive industry, doubling its sales over the last five years and becoming one of the leading players in the global market. At the same time, sales of electric and hybrid vehicles have increased significantly, with the strongest growth observed in China. Dimitrov noted that by 2030, overall vehicle sales are expected to grow at a slower pace compared to forecasts from several years ago, but the share of electrified vehicles will continue to increase. Among the key trends, he highlighted changing loyalty toward automotive brands. According to him, in some markets, especially China, consumers are far more willing to switch car brands when making their next purchase due to the large selection of manufacturers and models. Dimitrov pointed out that consumers perceive electric vehicles as an opportunity for a better user experience, access to new technologies, and lower fuel costs. More and more consumers expect faster charging and greater battery range, while the industry is already working on next-generation batteries with even longer range. He emphasized that alongside the growing interest in electric vehicles, there are still serious concerns related to battery safety, the risk of failures or fires, and the high cost of battery replacement. According to him, the development of charging infrastructure is among the key factors for expanding the electric vehicle market. Based on the presented data, most consumers prefer charging their vehicles at home, but they also expect a well-developed public charging network, including stations at fuel stations. Dimitrov noted that charging costs remain one of consumers’ main concerns, which is why many EV owners prefer home charging. He also pointed out that mobile applications and digital payments are increasingly being used for EV charging. According to him, the automotive industry is entering a phase of stronger digitalization, including software-defined vehicles and remote software updates. Some markets see these technologies as a major opportunity, while others remain more cautious due to concerns related to security and data privacy. He also pointed out that after the pandemic, the costs of purchasing, maintaining, and leasing vehicles have risen significantly, while consumers are becoming increasingly sensitive to the price and quality of the technologies they receive. According to Dimitrov, the way people buy cars is also changing. Although dealerships remain the preferred purchasing channel, online searches and internet-based vehicle purchases are becoming increasingly widespread across different markets. БТА