The Hi-Drive Final Event, held on 25 November 2025 at the Autoworld Museum in Brussels, marked the successful conclusion of one of Europe’s most ambitious projects in the field of automated driving. With more than 300 participants from industry, research, and public institutions, the event reached full capacity and clearly reflected the strong interest in the consortium’s results. The choice of location further underscored the significance of the event. Situated at the heart of Europe’s mobility ecosystem, Brussels provided the ideal setting to place the project outcomes into a broader context. This effect was reinforced by the fact that the exhibition extended beyond the event itself and remained in place as a backdrop for the subsequent EUCAR Annual Reception and Conference, allowing the Hi-Drive results to remain highly visible within a wider professional environment. 

At the core of the day was a large-scale, interactive exhibition that brought the project results to life across three thematic areas: “Vehicles, Enablers & Operations”, “Effects & Impact Assessment”, and “Users”. The exhibition featured 16 vehicles, numerous demonstrators and simulators, as well as an extensive visual infrastructure including 44 integrated monitors that clearly presented complex content and data. The event format was designed to foster direct exchange. Short stage presentations alternated with in-depth discussions at the exhibits, allowing participants to explore the exhibition freely, engage directly with experts, and experience the results first-hand. The day concluded with a networking reception that further encouraged personal interaction and exchange. 

Hi-Drive as a foundation for the next generation of automated mobility 

The Final Event provided a comprehensive overview of Hi-Drive’s contribution to advancing automated driving in Europe. Building on the results of the predecessor project L3Pilot, Hi-Drive aimed to significantly expand the operational domains of automated systems and improve their reliability in real-world conditions. 

At the core of this effort were the so-called “Technology Enablers”, which address key challenges and enable the extension of Operational Design Domains. These include V2X communication, high-precision positioning, cybersecurity, and machine learning approaches, all of which together form the basis for robust and scalable automated driving functions. The results presented were grounded in an extensive European testing programme, comprising 45 operations, more than 6,000 test runs, and approximately 27,000 kilometres driven — around 17,000 kilometres of which were conducted in automated mode. These data form a solid foundation for evaluating both the performance and the broader impact of automated systems. Beyond technological progress, the project also explored the wider implications for traffic systems and society. Particular focus was placed on safety, efficiency, emissions, and user acceptance. Complementary studies involving more than 15,000 participants provided valuable insights into trust, comfort, and interaction with automated vehicles. 

To further deepen the dissemination of results, the Final Event was preceded by a series of ten topical webinars. These sessions addressed key themes in detail and made the project outcomes accessible to a broader international audience.

EICT’s role 

EICT played a central role in the conception and execution of the Hi-Drive Final Event, shaping both its visual identity and overall structure. The team developed the complete exhibition concept for the mezzanine area at the Autoworld Museum, translating complex project results into a coherent and clearly structured narrative. In close collaboration with the exhibition builder, EICT implemented a consistent spatial and visual design that supported both the thematic structure and visitor orientation. All visual elements – from the exhibition design and signage system to the accompanying materials – were fully developed and produced by EICT. 

A key aspect of the work was the preparation and orchestration of all displayed content. The programming of the monitors, as well as the creation of presentations, interactive formats, and visual assets, was carried out entirely by EICT’s creative communications team. In addition, EICT coordinated all exhibiting partners, ensured the smooth integration of the exhibits, and managed key organisational processes including registration, guest management, and logistical coordination. 

Through this holistic approach, the Final Event was successfully positioned as a compelling platform for exchange among stakeholders, presenting the results of Hi-Drive in a clear, engaging, and impactful way. 

Image: Hi-Drive / EICT