The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has elected a new president at its AGM this week. That new president is Antonia Hendron, Ms Hendron is the second female president of SIMI in a row, taking over the role from Gillian Fanning. Ms Hendron is the Managing Director of M50 Truck & Van Centre, Dublin.
Dynamic and innovative
Speaking after her election, Ms Hendron commented that she was looking forward to her term as President and outlined a number of clear priorities. “Firstly, I want to help position the motor industry as a leader and enabler of the green transition. We are a dynamic and innovative industry, and if policy makers and legislators are prepared to work with us, we will help them achieve Ireland’s ambitious climate targets.
Confidence is key
“Consumers are the centre of this plan and for them to make the change to zero emission vehicles confidence is key. Therefore, there is an urgent requirement to create a second-hand electric vehicle fleet which can only happen via a vibrant overall new car market. In this context, it is imperative that the Government continues the VRT and grant support for Electric Vehicle until 2025, at which time these supports can be reviewed and invest now in the public charging infrastructure.
Apprenticeships and upskilling
“I am determined to ensure that the industry continues to focus on delivering high standards and supporting the training and upskilling of our people. I also want to co-opt government support for apprenticeships and upskilling of our mechanics. The rapid rollout of electric cars means that our people have to be more highly trained than ever before. With a full Cabinet position of Minister for Higher Education for the first time ever, it seems that the government is keen to invest in further training and especially in apprenticeships.”
As the Managing Director of M50 Truck & Van Centre, Antonia Hendron is actively involved in the commercial vehicle sector, serving as both the Chairperson of the SIMI VTN Committee and a member of the Society’s Management Board. The Vehicle Testing Network (VTN) are currently in transition towards their new 10-year vehicle testing licenses and she will assist as much as possible to ensure that companies have a successful transition to their new vehicle testing licencing.
