News sources have been warning of the dangers of diesel pollution for years and now government policies are moving towards seeking alternatives as diesel is gradually phased out. Another indicator of change is, that it is unlikely that the two German vehicle makers currently banned from selling their diesel cars in the US will be able to offer them to American buyers again.

These are just two drivers of change that are pushing alternative fuel vehicles into the innovation spotlight and seeing the rise of new companies like America’s Tesla and British Charge Automotive creating industry disruption and genuine excitement in the vehicle sector.

These innovating companies are in the vanguard of the automotive industry looking at opportunities beyond tradition. In 2017 we will see a lot more developments like these from companies both large and small. And if the British government starts to penalise diesel vehicle users that will only speed the process. A supreme court ruling earlier this year makes some government action look increasingly likely.

With a predicted boost to the UK economy of £50 billion by 2030 autonomous vehicles could generate 32,000 new jobs. Britain is well represented in this sector and now has the opportunity to become an innovation leader. To make this a reality companies need to collaborate and cross pollinate ideas and expertise using 3D simulation to turn data into knowledge across their extended organisation.

Many companies that Dassault Systèmes partners with are at the forefront of this sector enjoying the benefits of end to end connectivity on a single unified business platform. Applying technology this way is helping produce a burgeoning business climate.

Shared Mobility is another major current trend that will develop over coming years. BlaBlaCar for example has launched strongly into the shared ride market powered by hyperconnectivity and an innovative business model.

People may never want to stop owning cars but in many cases and in many cities it is not a practicable option. People will do whatever is most convenient and transport and mobility will continue evolving in line with that.

The experience aspect of mobility is becoming more important too.  Virtual Reality is being used in the world’s first VR car showroom at Westfield, London. Here Citroën’s new brand, DS, has just one car in the shop space but a host of options that can be experienced through VR. That experience is powered by the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform and I predict that in 2017 and beyond there will be many more developments as innovative, disruptive and exciting as these.