Automotive Today celebrates the winners of the Automotive Awards for Excellence Gala 2025

In a time when the automotive industry is redefining mobility through breakthrough technologies, shifting regulations, and evolving customer demands, recognizing excellence becomes more important than ever. The Automotive Industry Forum & Awards for Excellence 2025, organized by The Diplomat-Bucharest and Automotive Today, stands as a key benchmark event that both reflects and celebrates the sector’s ongoing transformation in Romania.

Held on November 11 at Nord Events Center – Globalworth, Summit Hall, this landmark gathering brings together visionary leaders, top-performing companies, and groundbreaking projects that shape the future of mobility. With a long-standing tradition started seven years ago, the event has grown into a prestigious platform that combines insightful dialogue during the Automotive CEO Forum with the celebration of achievements at the Automotive Awards Gala.

As the industry accelerates toward a smarter, more sustainable future, this gala shines a well-deserved spotlight on the innovators, decision-makers, and organizations driving progress across Romania’s automotive landscape.

This event would not have been possible without the support of our great partners, to whom we would like to say a big thank you: 

Strategic Partner ACAROM,

Platinum Partner NXP Semiconductors Romania,

Gold Partners Continental Anvelope Romania, Magna, Infineon, ICI Bucharest, KUKA, PwC, TotalEnergies, BMF Grup, Verdum, Bosch, Klarwin, AUMOVIO, Piaxo, Colliers, Phinia, Forvis Mazars, Dacia

Partners Rombat, DS Smith, Schaeffler, SolaX Power, MET, Ford

Supporting Institutions AHK Romania, CCIFER, Cluj IT, Lovering & Partners, ANIS

Media Partners Outsourcing Today, Automotive Today, Sustainability Today, Financial Intelligence, Economistul, Romania Durabila, Club Economic, Ziarul Bursa.

Romania’s automotive champions were decided by the esteemed jury committee, comprised of top professionals from various business sectors: 

Daniel Anghel, Country Managing Partner, PwC Romania, FIC VicePresident,

Bogdan Barbu, Tax Partner, Deloitte Romania

Alexandru Mitroi, Senior Adviser, Invest Romania

Alin Negrescu, Tax Partner, Head of Automotive & Industrial Markets, KPMG Romania

Cristina Bojica, VicePresident CCIFER, Partner Gruia Dufaut & Asociații

Sebastian Metz, General Manager, AHK Romania

Vasile Adrian, Partner, Head of Audit & Financial Advisory, Forvis Mazars in Romania

Colin C. Lovering, Chairman of the British Romanian Chamber of Commerce

Andrei Mihai Craciun, Head of Digital Transformation and Data Analysis Department, West University of Timisoara

A special thank you to our jury members for supporting this great event organized by Automotive Today and The Diplomat-Bucharest!

And now it’s time to reveal the list of winners at the Automotive Industry Awards for Excellence Gala 2025:

HR MANAGER OF THE YEAR

This category award is offered to an outstanding leader who has transformed the organizational culture through innovation, inclusion and employee development. With her name leading the human resources department, the company has become a benchmark of excellence in HR, consistently recognized as one of the most desired employers in the country and in the automotive industry.

This manager has implemented strategic programs such as Smart Work and wellbeing initiatives, promoting work-life balance and increasing team engagement.

Thanks to her vision and dedication, the company supports the professional and personal development of employees, strengthening sustainable partnerships with local communities and the educational environment.

We thus award a manager who represents a model of HR leadership excellence, whose achievements inspire the entire company.

The award in this category goes to Mrs. CRISTINA CORELLO, Human Resources Director within Bosch Group in Romania

AFTERMARKET EXCELLENCE AWARD

This category award is offered to a company that combines over 45 years of tradition with innovation and digitalization. Its wide portfolio addresses passenger cars, commercial vehicles, agricultural machinery and industrial applications.

The logistics system and national service network ensure speed and reliability, while the digital application developed by the company for product warranty and the training programs for partners ensure efficiency and transparency in after-sales services. Also, the awarded company stands out through the support for partners through marketing, training, and joint campaigns that strengthen long-term relationships.

The award for after-market services is offered to ROMBAT SA

HR STRATEGY OF THE YEAR

In this category, a company stood out through involvement and performance on employee-related indicators, with record scores (97% in 2025), zero accidents and absenteeism below 1%.

Their program called Team Coaching, part of Leadership Academy, promotes collaboration, trust and open communication between managers and key personnel.

The cross-functional workshops develop interpersonal skills, clarify expectations and stimulate employee recognition and motivation. The results include high engagement, strengthened leadership, increased retention and strategic alignment. The Team Coaching Program exemplifies HR excellence, inclusive culture and the company’s commitment to people and performance.

The award is offered to MAGNA EXTERIORS CRAIOVA for the Team Coaching Program

GREEN MOBILITY AWARD

This award is offered for the development of a complete and innovative solution that accelerates the development of electric charging systems in a safe, efficient and future-oriented way.

The platform developed by one of the leading automotive suppliers is cloud-connected and provides exemplary hardware and software instructions for rapid configuration of a secure connection between electric vehicle charging equipment (EVSE) and cloud applications.

Thus, according to its description, this modular and scalable platform allows the development of differentiated EV power supply systems, supporting bidirectional device-to-cloud and cloud-to-device communications, accurate energy billing and one-click NFC authentication.

These types of tools allow the extension of functionalities and rapid development of EVSE applications, including accurate metrology, graphical interfaces and software.

This award is offered to NXP SEMICONDUCTORS ROMANIA for the EasyEVSE Platform

INVESTMENT PROJECT OF THE YEAR

This award is offered to a company that has invested 70 million euros in expanding e-Mobility production capabilities in Romania, strengthening the production of critical components such as Belt Stator Generator for the 48V system and High-Voltage Drive for the E-Axle system, with production start planned in 2025.

The project takes place on 4,000 m² of modernized space and includes advanced technologies such as green laser welding, complex NVH testing and a high level of robotization and automation.

The initiative will generate significant economic value by increasing high-tech production, developing the local supply chain and creating jobs. The company’s investment reflects its strategic commitment to sustainable growth and technological innovation in electric mobility.

The award is offered to SCHAEFFLER ROMANIA for the investment of 70 million euros in expanding e-mobility production capabilities in Romania

COMPANY OF THE YEAR

This category award is offered to a company that stands out as a leader of the automotive industry in Romania, combining tradition with innovation and production excellence. The company has produced over 8 million vehicles, among which one of its newest models reached 250,000 units produced, with over 90% destined for export in Europe.

This company stands out through quality, reliability and adaptation to international market requirements. Through modern technology and innovative models, the company contributes significantly to Romania’s economic and industrial development.

Also, its performance strengthens the brand’s reputation and its position as a top exporter and mobility innovator.

We offer this award to Romania’s flagship automotive company – DACIA

SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

This category award is offered to a company that has implemented an innovative biological wastewater treatment plant, eliminating organic load resulting from distillation and automotive cleaning processes for a company producing components for the automotive industry.

The system treats 80–100 m³/day through a dual biological reactor, using electro-conductive microorganisms, without significant energy consumption and without producing sludge or chemical waste. The results include complete biodegradation of organic compounds, compliance with NTPA-002 standards and water circularity, reducing fresh water consumption by up to 100 m³/day.

The installation reuses existing infrastructure, reducing material consumption and carbon emissions, and operates silently and without odor, ideal for a production environment. This sustainable, energy-efficient and replicable solution sets a new benchmark for environmental protection and industrial excellence in the automotive sector.

The award is offered to KLARWIN for the biological wastewater treatment solution for Renault Horse Romania

COMMUNITY COMMITMENT AWARD

This award is offered to a company for which social responsibility does not only mean donations, but a long-term commitment to a healthier, greener and more connected city. In 2025, the focus was on four key areas: education, health, environment and sports.

Through partnership with Politehnica Timișoara and local high schools, the developed program prepares students for the labor market, combining theory and practice directly in the factory. Investments have also been directed to healthcare, supporting OncoHelp and children’s hospitals, and mobilizing teams to donate over 1,200 units of blood.

“Sports unite us,” they say, so they sponsored Timișoara Triathlon, attended by over 700 athletes from 22 countries. For 25 years, the company has invested in sustainable technologies, renewable energy and a clean environment. Their projects reflect long-term vision, collaboration and adaptation to community needs, each action aiming for visible, sustainable impact.

The award is offered to CONTINENTAL ANVELOPE ROMANIA

SAFETY EXCELLENCE AWARD

This award is offered to a company that paves the way for the future of automobiles through innovation in steer-by-wire systems, where the steering wheel no longer has a physical connection to the wheels. Their products such as the Safety Motor Control Application Kit (SMAK) guarantee top safety and maximum reliability.

Available in flexible packages, they ensure continuity and simple integration for global customers. The technology developed in Romania takes the step towards wide adoption of steer-by-wire systems, combining technical performance, safety and sustainability.

Through these products, the company brings the software-defined vehicle closer to reality, demonstrating excellence and the strategic impact of Romanian R&D.

The award in this category goes to INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES ROMANIA

SUPPLY CHAIN EXCELLENCE AWARD

This category award is offered for a partnership that launched an innovative rail route between the Craiova plant and Turkey, transporting components and vehicles produced in Romania. This intermodal solution reduces emissions by 63% compared to road transport, combining sustainability and efficiency.

The line will make four weekly trips to Istanbul, transporting 12,000 vehicles annually. Components needed for production arrive quickly and safely at the Craiova plant and rail transport optimizes costs and company competitiveness.

The initiative reflects the company’s commitment to environment and innovation, and with over 6,600 employees and continuous production, the plant is already a green and high-performance logistics hub. This project demonstrates that sustainable mobility can be fast, safe and scalable.

The award is offered to FORD OTOSAN for launching the rail route between the Craiova plant and Turkey

EDUCATION COMMITMENT AWARD

This category award is granted to an organization which, through an educational partnership of over 13 years, has decisively contributed to training approximately 800 young specialists in a dual system, of whom 86% were professionally integrated within the company itself.

Constant investments in technology strengthened the program’s impact: the introduction of AR/VR training in 2024 for practical training on cutting machines and the launch in 2025 of an Innovation Space dedicated to robotics, 3D printing, laser processing and AGV autonomous vehicles prepare students for the jobs of the future and support the competitiveness of the automotive industry in Romania.

Through its dedication to education and community, this organization becomes a model of excellence in collaboration between industry and the academic environment.

The award is offered to SCHAEFFLER ROMANIA

BEST PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR

This category award is granted to a visionary partnership that accelerates the transition to green mobility in the academic environment and directly contributes to training future generations of engineers.

Within a strategic collaboration, a modern charging infrastructure for electric vehicles was developed on one of the largest university campuses in Romania, bringing technology closer to students and supporting the adoption of a sustainable lifestyle.

The project consisted of installing 16 charging stations – totaling 32 points available both on campus and near student dormitories – including ultra-fast, fast and normal charging solutions, adapted to diverse mobility needs. The initiative demonstrates the crucial role of cooperation between academic and industry environments in transforming transport and preparing a generation aware of the technological impact on the environment.

Together, these partners are building a greener, more connected and more accessible future for the communities they serve.

The award is offered to the partnership between PPC BLUE AND POLITEHNICA BUCHAREST

TECHNOLOGY PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

This category award is granted to an organization that combines technological innovation with sustainability, developing solutions that respond to the major challenges of today. From electric mobility and hydrogen to autonomous driving and IoT, the company constantly invests in technologies that make life safer, more connected and more environmentally friendly. Its innovations in batteries, sensors and complete electric propulsion systems contribute to the energy transition and emissions reduction, preparing the ground for a greener world.

By developing infrastructure for electric vehicles, hydrogen technologies and integrated solutions for electromobility, the company creates new business opportunities, stimulates internal talent and supports the adoption of a sustainable lifestyle. In addition, its advanced driver assistance systems and automation solutions make transportation safer and more comfortable for users.

This holistic approach, which connects technology with responsibility toward people and the environment, defines the company’s excellence and vision.

The award is granted to BOSCH GROUP IN ROMANIA

INNOVATION AWARD

This category award is granted to an innovative security subsystem designed to protect applications requiring high confidentiality and authenticity. It isolates sensitive information, accelerates cryptographic operations through dedicated coprocessors and implements security measures both at system start-up and during application runtime.

The associated firmware provides complete services including administration and configuration, management of cryptographic keys, memory verification, acceleration of network security protocols. Thus, applications can operate safely, with high performance, while reducing load on the main cores.

The award goes to NXP SEMICONDUCTORS ROMANIA

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

This category award is granted to a company that marks an impressive milestone in the history of the Romanian automotive industry, by reaching a production record of 8 million vehicles in a single factory.

Vehicle number 8,000,000 rolled off the assembly lines on April 24, continuing a tradition of over 55 years. The Mioveni factory was inaugurated on August 20, 1968, along with the launch of the Dacia 1100 model, under Renault license.

The production record is held by the Duster model, launched in 2010 and already in its third generation, with over 2.6 million units produced in its 15 years of existence.

This performance reflects industrial excellence, innovation capability and the company’s lasting impact on regional mobility.

The award goes to DACIA

TIER 1 SUPPLIER EXCELLENCE AWARD

This category award is granted to a company that marks an important step in transforming mobility and integrating Romania into the global electrification network of the automotive industry. At the plant in Sebeș the assembly of electric drive units for the new Mercedes-Benz GLC electric has recently begun, becoming the second production center in the global network supplying these components to Mercedes-Benz factories worldwide.

Starting next year, the propulsion units produced in Sebeș will also be delivered to the Mercedes-Benz factory in Hungary, for the new fully electric C-Class model, highlighting the strategic role of Sebeș in the European value chain.

Through this achievement, the company confirms the importance of investments in cutting-edge technology, close collaboration with local authorities and community support, transforming Sebeș into a key hub in Mercedes-Benz’s global electrification strategy.

The award goes to STAR ASSEMBLY, subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz

TIER 2 SUPPLIER EXCELLENCE AWARD

This award is offered to a center of excellence in research and development that has demonstrated in 2025 that innovation, quality of execution and attention to people are principles that generate real value for customers.

With over 626 permanent employees and over 1,000 collaborators in total, the center in Romania has managed more than 70 R&D projects in the automotive field and delivered over 800 software releases annually, contributing to increasing the complexity of projects and expanding engineering capabilities.

In 2025, the teams launched an appreciated portfolio of integrated products, including firmware for communications and security, optimized system-level software, middleware for rapid application development, integrated platforms for electrification and vehicle networks, software for artificial intelligence and radar, as well as tools to support software development cycles.

The winner of this award is NXP SEMICONDUCTORS ROMANIA

CEO OF THE YEAR

This award is given to a visionary leader who has transformed not only the company he leads, but also the entire automotive industry in Romania. Under his leadership, Ford Otosan Romania reached a historic milestone in March 2025: the production and delivery of the first electric vehicles manufactured in Romania to Ford customers in Europe. This success marks the start of series production for the fully electric Puma Gen-E, E-Transit Courier and E-Tourneo Courier models, at the state-of-the-art plant in Craiova, strengthening Ford Otosan’s strategic role as a European hub for electrification and flexible manufacturing.

His commitment to people and community is reflected in the creation of an inclusive, safe and motivating work environment, promoting gender diversity and the inclusion of people with disabilities, through programs such as “Jobs 4 All”.

Through his clear vision and “people-first” approach, this leader has transformed Ford Otosan Romania into a model of operational excellence, innovation, sustainability and inclusion, generating remarkable results and positive impact on employees, communities and the automotive industry as a whole.

The award is offered to Mr. FIRAT ELHÜSEYNI, President of Ford Otosan Romania

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE INDUSTRY AWARD

This category award is granted to a company that marked a historic moment for Romania’s automotive industry, through the production and delivery of the first electric vehicles manufactured in the country to customers in Europe.

In March 2025, the state-of-the-art Craiova plant began series production of the fully electric Puma Gen-E, E-Transit Courier and E-Tourneo Courier models, strengthening the company’s position as a strategic hub for electric vehicle production in Europe and demonstrating expertise in electrification and flexible manufacturing.

The Craiova plant is a benchmark of complexity and innovation within the company’s global network, being the only unit in Europe producing both passenger and commercial vehicles, offering customers both traditional engines and fully electric versions.

Total investments of 500 million euros from 2022 to date, including the new battery assembly line inaugurated in 2024, have transformed Craiova into one of the most advanced and flexible auto manufacturing centers in Europe.

We grant this award to FORD OTOSAN ROMANIA

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE AUTOMOTIVE & TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY AWARD (offered by The Diplomat-Bucharest)

This category award is granted to a leader whose exceptional career stands out through vision, integrity and transformative leadership. As Vice President of Bosch Group in Romania and Bulgaria and General Manager of Robert Bosch SRL, he guided the remarkable growth of the company, expanding its impact in innovation, production and community.

Through strategic vision and strong trust in people, he built a culture based on excellence, collaboration and sustainable progress. His leadership, demonstrated over 30 years in the automotive industry, represents a model of responsible conduct and lasting contribution to Romania’s technological and economic development.

We grant this award to Mr. MIHAI BOLDIJAR, former Vice President of Bosch Group in Romania and Bulgaria and General Manager of Robert Bosch SRL.

BEST CORPORATE REBRANDING AND TRANSFORMATION AWARD (offered by The Diplomat-Bucharest)

The special award in this category is granted to a company leading the transformation of the industry with vision and energy.

With operations in Brașov, Iași, Sibiu and Timișoara, this company brings together four research and development centers and two production facilities.

Over 13,000 talented professionals work together to design, develop and deliver future mobility technologies to the entire world.

The official launch in September 2025 was not just a new name. It was a moment of unity, innovation and pride — celebrated simultaneously in Iași, Sibiu and Timișoara.

The winner of this award is AUMOVIO, the newest technology company in the automotive sector, spun off from the Continental group

KINDNESS IN MOTION AWARD (offered by The Diplomat-Bucharest)

In a world in which caring for animals and protecting the environment are more important than ever, the Kindness in Motion Award celebrates initiatives that transform compassion into concrete actions with real impact. The award recognizes a project that combined wildlife protection with environmental education and community involvement.

The team supported the adoption of the bear Brigitte, the 100th resident of the Liberty Zărnești Sanctuary, covering the costs for food, medical care and wellbeing, a symbol of its commitment to animals in need.

Through an educational program held in schools, students had the opportunity to learn about animal welfare and the importance of caring for the environment, including through practical activities at the sanctuary. Moreover, employees and their families participated in volunteering activities, and the “Walk for Brigitte” challenge mobilized the team to take part in an internal step challenge which translated into donations for the bear, promoting solidarity and a healthy lifestyle.

For this unique combination of compassion, environmental education and active involvement, the Kindness in Motion Award this year goes to the lubricant factory of TOTALENERGIES MARKETING ROMANIA in Cristian, Brașov County!

EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP

In a period of accelerated transformation for the automotive industry, the company led by the CEO awarded in this category stood out with a solid strategic direction and a remarkable execution capacity. The company successfully went through a complex stage of modernization, expansion and repositioning, consolidating its status as a leader in the local market and a trusted partner at an international level.

Under a clear and results-oriented vision, the manager managed to combine commercial performance with operational discipline, recording constant growth in a difficult economic context. Strategic investments, such as the Heavy Duty EFB production line, the RENAR accredited testing center and the digitalization of warranty processes reflect a coherent approach, focused on quality, innovation and efficiency. During 2024–2025, the company reached the threshold of almost 3 million batteries sold annually, with an increase of 22% compared to 2023 and a new expansion of over 5% in 2025, exporting over 60% of production to over 45 countries.

An important step in this evolution is the launch of the new brand identity, which marks the transition to a modern, sustainable company connected to global mobility trends. The new identity visually and conceptually expresses the current brand values ​​of performance, trust and progress – strengthening the connection between tradition and the vision of the future.

More than a high-performing company, the company’s culture represents an example of authentic leadership: an organization that inspires, trains people and actively contributes to the development of Romanian industry. Consistent results, solid culture and a reputation built on facts confirm a leadership vision that transforms plans into progress and challenges into opportunities.

We offer this award to Mr. ALIN IOANEȘ, CEO of Rombat SA

EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND TALENT DEVELOPMENT

With over 1,600 employees, the winner of this category is among the largest employers in Iași county and a regional leader in people development, engagement and inclusion. The company’s organizational culture is based on a clear belief: sustainable success begins with people.

The company constantly invests in learning and leadership. In the past year alone, employees accumulated over 16,000 hours of training through dedicated programs such as Leadership Academy, which prepares managers to lead with empathy, agility and strategic vision.

Through its educational program conducted in partnership with the “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iași, the company has modernized nine laboratories, supported over 1,000 students and created a Dual Education Program providing scholarships, practical training and guaranteed jobs, thus reducing the gap between education and industry.

Beyond skills development, the company promotes inclusion, collaboration and community growth. Annual open-door events, mentoring programs and internships strengthen the connection between employees, students and academia, transforming the company into a true model of excellence and social responsibility.

This award is offered to PHINIA DELPHI ROMANIA

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