Honorary Committee
Dr.-Ing Carles Grasas
Chief Executive Officer
IDIADA Automotive Technology SA
Dr. Grasas is currently Chief Executive Officer of IDIADA Automotive Technology SA and member of the Board of Management of Applus Corporation.
He was the Vice-President of the Spanish Society of Automotive Engineers (STA) and the President of the FISITA 2004 World Automotive Congress Organising Committee.
Dr. Grasas was born in 1954 in Barcelona, where he graduated from the University of Catalonia with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering and where he also pursued a degree in Business Administration from ESADE.
In 1984 he became professor of Internal Combustion Engines at the Engineering School, University of Catalonia. It was in this university where IDIADA was initially created as a research institute, and Dr. Grasas joined as Managing Director in 1987. His vision was for IDIADA to become a global partner to the automotive industry by finding the right team and the necessary resources. As a first step, an independent company spun-off and started with the conception of a detailed strategy and business plan. In 1994 IDIADA's leading-edge Technical Centre in l'Albornar was inaugurated. Since then the company, lead by the majority of the original management team, has been growing continuously and presently belongs to Applus Corportation. IDIADA employs 800 people in 14 different countries, being considered a reference in automotive engineering worldwide.
Spotlight on IDIADA Automotive Technology SA
Applus IDIADA, as a global partner to the automotive industry worldwide, supports clients in their product development activities by providing design, engineering, testing and homologation services to fit their needs.
Its success in product development is built on the combination of highly experienced and motivated engineers and best-in-class test and development facilities, client focus and the constant drive towards innovation.
A large team of engineers drawn from over 25 countries, as well as an international network of subsidiaries and branch offices in 15 countries ensure clients will be given fast and customized services. Applus IDIADA is present in Spain, France, Germany, Italy, UK, Luxembourg, Czech Republic, Poland, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, China, Taiwan, India and Brazil.
Testing & Engineering : Applus IDIADA provides an extensive range of engineering and testing services in the fields of passive and active safety, powertrain, comfort, reliability, electronics and materials and processes. Applus IDIADA undertakes complete vehicle development projects applying tailor-made project management solutions based on the requirements of each project. Applus IDIADA's expertise in both physical and virtual testing means maximum efficiency in cost and time. Its engineering solutions are driven by the ongoing pursuit of excellence and research in the best technology.
Proving ground : Applus IDIADA offers the most comprehensive independent proving ground in Europe and the highest level of customer support combined with first-class test tracks and fully-equipped confidential workshops. Excellent climatic conditions allow for year-round testing.
The allocation of a dedicated customer service representative for each testing team ensures that the testing program runs smoothly and that objectives are achieved on time and within budget.
Homologation : Applus IDIADA has a large team of engineers specializing in the homologation of all types of vehicles and systems, ready to travel worldwide in response to clients' needs. Its broad experience in homologation management ensures maximum efficiency and short lead times. Applus IDIADA issues official certificates according to EC Directives and ECE Regulations within Europe, and is recognised internationally as an authorised technical service and consultant in regulations. Its fields of competence in the homologation sector include passenger cars & components, commercial vehicles and motorcycles & helmets.