The Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) has launched the MTAiQ innovation hub.
The MTAiQ is the first facility in Australia to be focused on the automotive industry exclusively, established in response to the continuing technological change within the industry.
Mentors, investors, coaches, commercial partners and industry experts will meet to collaborate with start-up businesses, as well as established businesses looking to capitalise on the changing landscape of the industry.
The iQ hub is located at MTA Queensland’s head office in Brisbane. High-speed internet access, first-class presentation and hot desk office facilities, as well as state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, are all available to hub clients.
Additionally, clients will have access to experts in the fields of ICT, business innovation, finance management, marketing and communications, and Australian law.
MTAQ CEO Brett Dale said the hub would help establish Queensland as a centre of automotive innovation and create opportunities and growth.
“The technology coming to our industry - such as driverless vehicles, new electric vehicles and the way those vehicles are charged and the application of virtual and augmented reality in business processes means that in a few years’ time, not too many businesses will look as they do today.
“By 2020 we will see significant changes to our industry and by 2022 the major impact to business will be here. And that is no time at all.
"More than ever, we need to collaborate to innovate and I believe this facility is totally relevant to where we need to be in the 21st century.
“We are committed to driving opportunities for industry, supporting existing business to transform their business model to ensure they are postured for maximum opportunity, and to bringing in new start-ups that are relevant to our industry and that will service and add value not only to that industry but to our community in general.”