EU's Von der Leyen urges continent-wide AI-driven car development

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for a Europe-wide initiative to develop self-driving cars, emphasizing artificial intelligence as a key factor in revitalizing the continent's struggling automotive industry and enhancing road safety. Speaking at Italian Tech Week in Turin, she urged the European Union to adopt an "AI first" strategy, particularly in mobility, to keep pace with advancements in the United States and China. Von der Leyen proposed establishing a network of European cities to pilot autonomous vehicles, noting significant interest from Italian mayors, and pledged EU support for vehicles "made in Europe and made for European streets." She highlighted the potential of AI to reduce traffic congestion, connect remote areas with public transportation, and preserve jobs in the rapidly transforming automotive sector. The initiative aims to boost industrial competitiveness and ensure that the future of cars is rooted in European innovation. Von der Leyen's call to action was supported by notable figures such as Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and leaders from Ferrari and Stellantis.