From June 29 to July 3, 2025, AKE technologies proudly participated in a high-profile Bavarian business delegation trip to North and South Carolina, led by State Minister Hubert Aiwanger.
The delegation was organized by the Bavarian State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, in cooperation with Bayern International and the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Southern U.S. (GACC South).

Aims of the Delegation

• Showcase Bavaria's innovation in energy and mobility transition
• Strengthen transatlantic partnerships
• Explore new economic opportunities in the United States

The delegation included representatives from business, academia, politics, and media, forming a diverse and dynamic platform for international exchange.

Key Stops on the Itinerary

• Research Triangle Park (Durham, NC): Meetings with innovators and start-ups
• BMW Group Plant (Spartanburg, SC): Plant tour and roundtable with German automotive suppliers
• International Transportation Innovation Center (Greenville, SC): Discussions on test environments for autonomous and electric vehicles
• ElectriCities of North Carolina (Davidson, NC): Dialogues on smart grids and energy infrastructure
• BATT CAVE Research Center (UNC Charlotte): Insights into battery technology and autonomous driving research
• HUBER Technology US: Company visit to a successful German SME in the U.S.

Political and Economic Dialogues

The delegation also engaged with prominent figures including:

• Lee Lilley, Secretary of Commerce, North Carolina
• Senator Jeffrey Zell, South Carolina
• Representatives from chambers of commerce and economic development organizations

Networking events in Charlotte and Columbia further enriched the transatlantic exchange.

AKE’s Perspective and Highlights

For AKE technologies, the trip presented a valuable opportunity to:

• Enhance visibility in the U.S. market
• Foster international collaboration
• Explore new potentials in special-purpose machinery, automation, and testing technologies—particularly in the context of e-mobility

A key highlight was the roundtable at BMW Spartanburg, where AKE COO/CSO Michael Schurm addressed the critical topic of how SMEs can prepare for potential trade tariffs. The discussion emphasized that innovation must be supported by clear political frameworks.

Media Coverage

The trip attracted significant media attention, including detailed coverage by Bayerischer Rundfunk (BR) regarding current U.S.-EU trade discussions.

Read the article: Aiwanger in den USA zum Zollstreit – BR24

AKE technologies expresses sincere thanks to all organizers, partners, and participants for their excellent collaboration and enriching exchange.

Photos: StMWi