The International Automobile Federation (FIA) recently crowned the winners of its Innovation Challenge 2025, an event that highlights bold projects propelling mobility into the future. These initiatives, coming from member clubs around the world, do much more than simply offer technical innovations: they redefine our relationship with the road and our travel.
An inspiring competition for mobility
In its second edition, the FIA Innovation Challenge saw the participation of 43 projects from various clubs across the globe. One could say it is the “Tour de France” of innovative ideas, where each club competes with ingenuity to provide solutions to contemporary mobility challenges. This competition is part of a collective desire to make travel safer, more sustainable, and affordable for all.
The laureates were announced during the FIA Annual General Assemblies in Tashkent, where members celebrated achievements ranging from drone pilot training to vehicle safety standards. Each project reflects creativity and a commitment to improving our daily lives.
Projects that leave a mark
This year’s winners are:
Automòbil Club d’Andorra: training drone pilots with a certified programme that combines theory and practice, the Andorran club establishes itself as a pioneer in the field of vertical mobility.
Royal Automobile Club of Queensland: in response to the scourge of vehicle theft in Australia, this club developed a new safety standard that focuses on protecting motorists.
British Columbia Automobile Association: in response to forest fires, this club proposes initiatives that strengthen community resilience against environmental disasters.
Automóvil Club Argentino: this club uses an innovative platform to transform every employee into an ambassador, attracting over 35,000 new members in one year.
A green future with drones: the example of the Automòbil Club d’Andorra
The Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA) won first prize with its drone pilot training programme. Imagine a world where drones are ubiquitous, delivering medicines or monitoring forests to prevent fires. The Andorran club offers certified training via an online platform, allowing future pilots to prepare for their exams with European aviation authorities. Enric Tarrado Vives, President of ACA, stated: “This programme positions us as pioneers in the adoption of transformative technologies.”
Safety first: the initiative of the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland
In Australia, where vehicle theft has become a real epidemic, the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) has responded brilliantly. In partnership with local police and Griffith University, they developed a new safety standard for vehicles. It’s as if cars are being given an invisible armour! Dr Michael Kane from RACQ emphasised the importance of this standard in preserving not only material goods but also the peace of mind of drivers.
Support against fires: British Columbia Automobile Association
In the face of the growing threat of forest fires in British Columbia, the British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA) launched its “Defending Against Wildfires” programme. This strategic initiative combines community partnerships and innovations to build resilience against disasters. Like a beacon in the storm, this programme aims to raise awareness and prepare communities before, during, and after fires. Shawn Pettipas, director at BCAA, asserts that “every action counts to protect our communities.”
A new membership model with the Automóvil Club Argentino
The Automóvil Club Argentino has developed a platform titled “WE ARE ONE TEAM,” which transforms every employee into an ambassador for the club. Imagine a network where every member is a piece of the puzzle, contributing to a common goal. In one year, this initiative attracted over 35,000 new members! César Carman, president of the club, highlights that “this community dynamic is essential to strengthen our presence and impact.” A true whirlwind of collective energy!
Celebrating innovation in the automotive sector
These projects demonstrate how innovation can manifest in various forms and fields. From road safety to education and environmental sustainability, each initiative contributes to building a better future for all. The FIA Innovation Challenge is not just a simple competition: it is a showcase of the transformative potential of the global automotive community.
As we continue our journey towards sustainable and inclusive mobility, it is essential to recognise these leaders who dare to dream and act. The award-winning projects this year are just the beginning of a revolution in progress.
