Outcome of the monitor: the Netherlands continues to strengthen its ITS position
The annual ‘International ITS Competitive Position Monitor’ shows that the export and competitive position of Dutch ITS companies improved again in 2016. For the second consecutive year, Decisio compiled the monitor on behalf of Connecting Mobility and the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment (IenM). The monitor is based on a survey among 131 companies and knowledge institutions, supplemented by interviews with around 25 companies, knowledge institutions and public authorities. The results show that Dutch companies active in the field of ITS (Intelligent Transport Systems) saw their turnover increase in 2016, as was the case for most companies in 2015. Exports of ITS products also rose for the second year in a row.
The Netherlands as frontrunner
These positive signals are reflected in the view of companies, knowledge institutions and public authorities that the Dutch competitive position in this ‘highly innovative’ sector has strengthened. Dutch businesses are active in areas such as Smart Mobility, traffic management, partially or fully automated vehicles and (increasingly) Mobility as a Service (MaaS). In many of these fields, the Netherlands is a European or even global frontrunner. This is also confirmed by several surveyed members of Ertico, the umbrella organisation involved in ITS developments across Europe. The Netherlands is particularly seen as a ‘leading country’ in traffic management, smart traffic lights and connected driving.
Ongoing developments
The outlook therefore remains positive. The sector continues to innovate, and more and more countries recognise the value of intelligent vehicles and traffic management systems. Dutch companies have ample (international) potential. However, neighbouring countries are not standing still. In countries with a strong automotive industry, companies are investing heavily in ITS products. Germany, for example, has relatively large amounts of capital available. This is an important point of attention for the Netherlands. The monitor shows that Dutch companies’ turnover in the consumer market is lagging behind, precisely the market targeted by the automotive industry. Dutch businesses must therefore ensure they do not miss the boat. They will need to closely monitor developments in public markets (such as traffic management) in combination with private markets (in‑car systems, connected and automated driving).
Knowledge institutions are also making strong progress internationally. Developments in China, for example, are moving rapidly due to substantial investment. The Netherlands can learn a great deal from what is happening elsewhere. But to maintain our leading position, where we indeed hold it, continued investment is essential.
