The great advantage that ACEM and FIM defend is that motorcycles contribute to improving mobility and, as the figures show, they also contribute positively to the challenges of sustainable and environmentally efficient mobility promoted by the EU.
For this reason, both organizations have claimed at the event “Riding Together for Europe” that the European institutions pay greater attention to motorcycles, which are also an economic driver. Anticipating the political and legislative debates that will take place in the coming years, and looking after the interests of motorcycle users and the industry, ACEM and FIM presented a roadmap for the motorcycle sector.
The five pillars of ACEM and FIM to promote motorcycling
This roadmap is based on five pillars, which both the representatives of the brands (ACEM) and the users (FIM) consider fundamental, and which are: road safety, sustainability, industrial competitiveness, research and innovation and, finally and also included together, tourism and motor sports.
The challenge is important for ACEM and FIM, as some of these improvements require a lot of effort. Given that motorcycle users are vulnerable, a specific priority is required in road safety plans at European, but also national and local level.
Amongst others, Michele Colannino, President of ACEM and CEO of Piaggio, Jorge Viegas, President of the FIM, and various representatives of the European Commission and Parliament such as Magda Kopczyńska and Bernd Lange attended the event. There was also a star guest, James Toseland, who shared his experience to defend motor sport.
Michele Colaninno, President of ACEM and CEO of Piaggio: “Riding together for Europe also means innovation. The motorcycle industry is committed to continuing to develop innovative vehicles for mobility and leisure, but we need realistic policies to fully include these vehicles as part of future mobility. Competitiveness must be at the heart of the next European political mandate, supporting manufacturers to adapt to future legislation, while continuing to promote growth and create skilled jobs.”
FIM President Jorge Viegas said: “For 120 years, the FIM has been at the forefront of developing and improving motorcycling and it was good to be able to demonstrate this last night to the Members of the European Parliament and the European Commission. It was also important to emphasise that motorcycling is not just a marketing or research tool, but also an important cultural and economic activity supporting hospitality, tourism and rural economies. This message was clear and we hope that politicians will understand the need to protect and encourage this activity in the future.”
José María Riaño, Secretary General of ANESDOR: “The Riding Together for Europe event was a unique opportunity for the various European institutions to learn in detail about the importance of motorcycles in Europe, not only from the point of view of mobility, but also from the industrial and economic point of view. The message was clear, now we must continue with joint work to ensure that motorcycles and their users have the consideration they deserve at all levels.”
