Shoosmiths Automotive Conference 2025

 Where:

 Shoosmiths, London 

 Date:

 Thursday, 12 June 2025

13:00

Lunch & networking

13:30

Welcome
Jonathan Smart, Partner and Head of Mobility Sector

13:40

Panel | Driving New Paths: Transforming Customer Journeys in the Automotive Market

Join industry experts as they explore the changing consumer routes to market in the automotive sector including the impact of new regulations under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act will impact the growth in subscription models, developing approaches to agency models in the market and how DEI impact the way customers interact with the sector.

Moderated by: Felicity Forward, Principal Associate, Shoosmiths

• Erin Baker, Editorial Director, Autotrader
• Toyosi Ajimoko, Senior Legal Counsel, Volkswagen Group UK

14:20

Panel | Navigating the Automotive Maze: Electrifying Changes and Supply Chain Twists

Join industry experts as they dive into the big issues driving the automotive sector, from the electrifying EV transition to the twists and turns of supply chain challenges and the bumpy ride of tariffs. Buckle up for a lively discussion on how these factors are steering customer journeys and reshaping the market.

Moderated by: Chris Pritchett, Partner, Shoosmiths

• Abhishek Sampat, Head of Electric Vehicles, Constellation Automotive Group
• Sara Sloman, Chief Strategy Officer, Paythru
• Andrew Mansfield, EV Supply Chain Manager, SMMT

15:00

Networking break

15:20

Breakout sessions

Revving Up Reform: Fixing Motor Finance One Mile at a Time!

Join us for an engaging fireside chat where we will discuss how to reset the motor finance industry in light of the FCA's review of mis-sold car finance and the recent Supreme Court ruling on commission payments. Gain insights into innovative strategies and regulatory changes that are shaping a more transparent and resilient future for motor finance.

Hosted by: Wayne Gibbard, Partner, Shoosmiths

• Adrian Dally, Director of Motor Finance and Strategy, FLA
• Suzanne Taylor, Partner, Shoosmiths
• Chris Fitch, Vulnerability Lead Consultant, Money Advice Trust

Accelerating Innovation: AI's Pit Stop in the Automotive Sector

AI is presenting opportunities and challenges for businesses operating across all sectors, and automotive is no different. From connected and autonomous driving to vehicle design, manufacturing, and retail – AI will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the global automotive industry. Join our roundtable to discuss the use cases for AI in automotive and the latest legal developments and compliance risks that are emerging in this fast-moving area of technological advancement.

Hosted by: Ben Gardner, Partner, Shoosmiths

• Alex Kirkhope, Partner, Shoosmiths
• Jenny Millard, Associate Director, Future Mobility and Sustainability, KPMG

16:15

Keynote Q&A with Chris Harris

The Q&A session will explore personal experiences with exciting cars and EVs, sustainability in the automotive sector, and thrilling mobility trends. It will address barriers to EV adoption, advancements in EV technology and battery tech, consumer perceptions, and the roles of public and private sector in developing future mobility infrastructure.

Hosted by: Alison Gilson, Partner, Shoosmiths

• Chris Harris, Automotive Journalist, Professional Racing Driver, and Television Presenter

17:15

Closing remarks & networking drinks