Wayne Griffiths, the current president of the National Association of Automobile and Truck Manufacturers (ANFAC), appears prepared to serve another year after a unanimous vote by the organization’s General Assembly. Griffiths did not set a definite conclusion about his tenure during last Wednesday’s Madrid meetings, choosing to keep options open in light of ongoing discussions. He met with Ministers of Transport Oscar Puente and Industry Jordi Hereu to review how the sector might be steered toward transformation, with a clear emphasis on accelerating electric vehicle adoption.
Griffiths, whose leadership at ANFAC is due to end next January, has earned broad backing from the association’s manufacturing partners following the government’s initial conversations about the industry’s future. He stressed that his role goes beyond mere representation, signaling a readiness to act decisively. He said, in effect, that he intends to “keep driving progress,” not merely to stay in a comfortable perch. He also noted that the job is about doing substantial things, not small ones.
His mission centers on ensuring that the government honors the expressed interest of the two ministries, and on pressing for sensible moves from Finance on the fiscal side. He highlighted the importance of ANFAC’s sustainability plan, which integrates the priorities of the Transport and Industry ministries and guides the sector toward greener mobility.
“We need the collaboration of all key players—ANFAC’s partners, the industry, various associations, and my own automotive group (Volkswagen) included—to commit the time and to work with the government to support the transformation effort,” he stated. He also acknowledged concerns about corruption and stressed that the sector is strategic for Spain.
Any assistance would be welcome. “I can’t do this alone,” he admitted. Spain faces a market still struggling to regain its pre-pandemic momentum, and there is a lingering hesitation among consumers toward electric vehicles—only about 11% currently adopt electric or plug-in hybrid technologies. With approximately 900,000 vehicles expected to be sold this year, the industry still aims to reach the one-million mark that is often cited as a target for robust growth.
definitive guarantee
Griffiths observed that both ministers are likely to back a shared vision for transforming the sector and to acknowledge the shortcomings of past efforts, particularly in relation to the Action Plan. He underscored the need for government collaboration, arguing that mobility and sustainability issues are part of a broader solution grounded in models that are both sustainable and zero-emission. He urged the government to reinforce this idea and noted that officials have assured him they will pursue this path.
The Seat and Cupra chair confirms that failing to complete the homework during this period could cost the industry a critical window for future opportunities. Manufacturers are now making important investment decisions, and if readiness falters, competitiveness could be at risk. This is not a time for half measures; decisive action is required.
Griffiths emphasized that reforms must deliver tangible improvements that ease the burden on users. This entails not only prohibitions but also incentives, and a coordinated approach to consumer motivation and financial recovery. He pointed out that National oversight of charging infrastructure installation is essential and should not be left to municipal authorities or regional bodies alone. “What gets done must be monitored and followed up, because Europe will expect results,” he stated. These two elements were pivotal for sustaining momentum, according to ANFAC’s renewed president.