ACONEXT:
Where did the idea for Digital Future Connect come from? Was there a moment when you knew: This is it – we’re going for it?
Guido:
Over the past few years, ACONEXT has undergone a major transformation – from a traditional engineering service provider to a modern consulting and service partner with a clear focus on digitalization and future technologies in the automotive sector. Today, we are a team of around 800 experts, and our portfolio is broader and more digital than ever before.
What we noticed along the way: Many of our clients still associate us with the “old” ACONEXT – but not with who we are today. The idea for Digital Future Connect was born out of the desire to change exactly that. We wanted to create a platform where we could make our transformation tangible, offer insights into our Digital Future division, and engage in conversations with our clients about the challenges and opportunities of digital mobility.
For me, it was clear: this is exactly the kind of event we need – not someday, but now.
Rene:
At the end of 2024, I also felt that we needed to get even closer to our customers – to better understand their needs and expectations and to position our portfolio in the best possible way. So why not invite them to us? We wanted to offer something truly worthwhile – something that would make it worth their while to come to Fellbach.
Then Guido brought up the idea of involving our employees as well. After our first few conversations, it quickly became clear to both of us: this is exactly what we’re going to do!
ACONEXT:
Guido, you lead the “Digital Future” division – what does that term mean to you personally? And how does it drive ACONEXT forward?
Guido:
“Digital Future” is much more than a buzzword to me – it represents a mindset. It’s about not just accepting change, but actively shaping it. In my view, it means not just implementing new technologies, but using them in a way that creates real value – for our clients, our employees, and the entire industry.
At ACONEXT, that’s exactly what the Digital Future division stands for: we combine technological expertise with deep industry knowledge, bringing innovations like AI, data analytics, and digital twins right where they’re needed – into our clients’ development processes.
That not only moves ACONEXT forward from a technical perspective, but also positions us as a true partner – one who speaks the language of OEMs and suppliers, while providing fresh impulses for what’s next.
ACONEXT:
Rene, you’re deeply involved with our clients and their projects – where do you see a clear need to talk about future topics like Software-Defined Vehicles or Artificial Intelligence in a different way than we have in the past?
Rene:
In my view, the current situation in the automotive industry clearly shows that we need to rethink our approach. We have to adapt to a new generation of buyers with different expectations. Especially here in Germany, staying innovative is crucial – otherwise, we risk being overtaken by other countries.
It’s evident that we need to rethink not only the product, but also the processes behind it. Of course, topics like Software-Defined Vehicles and Artificial Intelligence are important drivers – but the list goes far beyond that. Powertrain concepts, production and development costs, IT tools, and innovation in general all play a major role.
ACONEXT:
What were your top priorities when shaping Digital Future Connect – and what did you want to do differently from a typical industry event?
Guido:
What mattered most to us was that Digital Future Connect would become more than just another industry event. No one-way communication, no endless PowerPoint presentations – but a real experience that inspires and puts dialogue at the center.
That’s why we developed a concept that combines variety, depth, and interaction: our marketplace allows different ACONEXT teams to showcase their expertise and full range of services – in a compact, hands-on, and personal way. This is complemented by expert talks on real flagship IT projects from within our company, demonstrating how we bring digitalization to life in a very tangible way.
A special highlight for us is the keynote by Prof. Dr. Stark from TU Berlin – a thought leader who brings fresh perspectives on digital transformation in the industry. In short: we didn’t want a conventional event; we wanted something that inspires, connects, and shows what ACONEXT stands for today.
Rene:
From the very beginning, we wanted an event that would captivate both our employees and our clients. It needed to be dynamic and diverse – as innovative as it is engaging, with a wide range of digital topics. In other words: far more than just a showcase of ACONEXT.
ACONEXT:
Guido, looking back at the preparations – what’s been your standout moment so far in the lead-up to Digital Future Connect?
Guido:
My personal highlight so far has definitely been the inspiring collaboration across the entire division – cross-functional, creative, and full of energy. It was truly impressive to see everyone pulling in the same direction to refine and present our topics, ideas, and projects so clearly.
What I’m especially proud of is that, as part of the preparation, we took the opportunity to sharpen, structure, and modernize our entire portfolio. This process wasn’t just important for Digital Future Connect – it also gave us, internally, a whole new shared understanding of what we stand for and what we can offer our clients.
ACONEXT:
Rene, as you reviewed the content and speaker selection, what moment or realization stood out to you the most?
Rene:
For me, the real aha moment came right at the beginning – the moment we made the firm decision to go ahead with the event. From that point on, the collaboration with our organizing team was incredibly energizing. Everyone approached it with so much passion and commitment, and that spirit really set the tone for everything that followed.
Choosing the keynote speaker was actually the easy part. I’ve known Rainer Stark since the 1990s – our paths first crossed at Ford in Cologne. Even back then, he was a pioneer in digital product development, and for me, he became one of the true founding figures in that field.
ACONEXT:
What lasting impression do you hope to leave on the participants when the event wraps up and they go home?
Guido:
I hope our guests leave the event feeling: “That was different – and it was worth it.”
They should get to know ACONEXT in a new light – as an innovative, digital, and genuinely strong partner. Ideally, they’ll take away concrete impulses for their own projects, new ways of collaborating, or the next technological leap.
If by the end, they’re inspired, filled with fresh ideas, and genuinely interested in continuing the conversation, then we’ve done everything right.
ACONEXT:
What do you think: Will there be a second Digital Future Connect, or is this meant to be a one-time event?
Guido:
I’m pretty sure this won’t be the last time. If Digital Future Connect sparks what we hope for – inspiration, exchange, and genuine connection – it would almost be irresponsible to keep it a one-time event.
I see Digital Future Connect as a format with a future: one that grows, evolves, and continuously brings fresh impulses. So, we’re definitely thinking ahead.
Rene:
It was a lot of work, no question about that. Still, I truly hope this format has a future. But let’s wait and see what the participants say. Hopefully, the answer will become clear on its own after the event.
The interview for ACONEXT was conducted by Magdalena Zalewski.