Get ready to rev your engines and explore the latest exciting additions to the automotive industry at Driving Automotive

The NFDA’s Driving Automotive 2026 – New Roads: Emerging Brands and the Future of Automotive AI

Hosted by the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA)

Tuesday 15 December 2026

9:15 AM – 2:30 PM

Lord’s Cricket Ground, St John’s Wood, London NW8 8QN

About the Event

Hosted by Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the NFDA, this high-profile event brings together industry leaders, OEMs, and pioneering dealers to discuss the evolving automotive landscape — and the opportunities created by new entrants to the UK.

Attendance is free for NFDA members.

Agenda Includes:

Owen Edwards, Interpath – The Global Economy

Ian Plummer, Auto Trader – China’s ever more powerful OEMs and UK car buyers and retailers: A story of how what goes on ‘over there’, really does affect us ‘over here’

John O’Hanlon, Waylands & John Wakefield, AION – Launching a new brand in the UK, 1 Year on

Declan Curry (Host) & Ashley Passant, MD Greenhous Group – The challenges and opportunities of running a large UK dealer group

Brand Showcases & Panels featuring updates from Chery, AION and leading automotive dealer panels

What to Expect

· Expert Insights – Hear from top analysts and industry voices about global trends, UK market implications, and the rise of new automotive brands.

· Real-World Perspectives – Learn what it’s really like to launch and represent a new brand in today’s market.

· Live Showcase – Be among the first to see new models and technologies from the latest brands entering the UK.

· Dealer & OEM Panel – Join an open discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s automotive retailers.

· High-Impact Networking – Connect with senior decision-makers, OEM executives, and dealership leaders shaping the future of retail automotive.

Who Should Attend

· Senior executives from major dealer groups

· Heads of regional dealer networks

· Franchised and independent dealer principals

· OEM and importer representatives

If you’re looking to understand the next wave of automotive opportunities — and identify the most relevant future brand partners — this event is for you.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday 15 December 2026

Time: 9:15 AM – 2:30 PM

Venue: Lord’s Cricket Ground, St John’s Wood, London NW8 8QN

Why Attend

Driving Automotive has been the NFDA’s flagship event since 2012, evolving with the industry to in 2023 to highlight the new entrants transforming automotive retail.

This year’s New Brand Entrants edition will help you:

· Stay ahead of disruptive market entrants

· Build valuable OEM connections

· Prepare your business for the next phase of EV growth and consumer change

Register Now

Spaces are limited — and this event always sells out. Secure your place today to gain insight, inspiration, and a front-row view of automotive’s future.

Description supplied by the event organiser.