Ola Källenius re-elected ACEA president for 2026

The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has re-elected Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, to serve a second term as president of the organisation in 2026.

The decision was confirmed at a meeting of ACEA’s Board of Directors, which is made up of the chief executives of Europe’s 16 major car, van, truck and bus manufacturers. The presidency is renewed annually and can be extended once.

Källenius said the reappointment comes at a pivotal moment for Europe’s automotive sector as it navigates the twin pressures of accelerating decarbonisation and reinforcing industrial competitiveness. “It is our strong conviction that decarbonisation goals can only be achieved when paired with a strong agenda for global competitiveness and value chain resilience,” he said. “This has driven our work in 2025 and will continue to do so in 2026.”

ACEA members remain committed to the EU’s transition to zero-emission mobility and have been active participants in the European Commission’s Strategic Dialogue on the future of the automotive industry. The Commission is preparing an “automotive package” of legislative proposals expected next year, including revisions to CO2 standards for cars and vans, rules for green corporate fleets and a wide-ranging omnibus regulation. Källenius said the package will be a defining moment for the EU to set a more pragmatic course for the sector.

“Flexibilities, technology openness and targeted policies for cars, vans, trucks and buses remain essential to get the green transformation and Europe’s industrial competitiveness back on track,” he said. “We have high expectations, as there is a lot at stake.”