Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Executive summit for senior leaders from automotive OEMs and Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers
- Covers software-defined vehicles, AI integration, supply chain transformation and manufacturing acceleration
- Features over 50 speakers and more than 400 senior executives
- Addresses U.S. market competitiveness, tariffs, rising costs and affordable vehicle development
- In-person format in Detroit with plenary sessions, panels, workshops and roundtables
About the Event
Automotive USA 2026, organized by Reuters Events, brings together senior automotive executives in Detroit to address the industry’s most pressing strategic and operational challenges. The summit is structured around an OEM-driven agenda, with programming shaped by the priorities of original equipment manufacturers and their supply chain partners.
The event features plenary sessions, panel discussions, forums, workshops and roundtables. Companies represented at previous editions include Karma Automotive, Volkswagen, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, Lucid Motors, NIO USA, Volvo Cars America and Perficient.
Core Topics
Programming focuses on four main areas: supply chain and manufacturing transformation, software-defined and connected vehicles, artificial intelligence and data-driven innovation, and competitiveness and affordability. Specific technologies under discussion include AI, automation, real-time data analytics, connected services, over-the-air updates and digital vehicle architecture.
Industry Challenges Addressed
The summit tackles challenges facing U.S. automotive manufacturers, including defending domestic market share, navigating rising costs and tariffs, building resilient supply chains and accelerating the development of affordable vehicles. Sessions examine how OEMs and suppliers can integrate advanced technologies such as software-defined vehicle platforms and AI while managing cost pressures.
Who Should Attend
The event targets director-level and above executives from automotive OEMs and Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers. Typical attendees include CEOs, Presidents, Chief Supply Chain Officers, Senior Vice Presidents, Vice Presidents of Automotive and Directors of Software Defined Systems Architecture.