Bilbao, July,10th, 2026 – ACICAE – Basque Country Automotive Cluster – held the 20th edition of the AUTOMOTIVE-ACICAE 2026 Awards yesterday, recognising individuals, organisations and projects that stand out for their contribution to the development, competitiveness and transformation of the automotive sector.
This year’s ceremony was particularly significant as it coincided with the 20th anniversary of the awards, which, over the past two decades, have recognised the track record, leadership and value added by companies and professionals who contribute to strengthening one of the Basque Country’s most important and demanding industrial sectors.
The ACICAE Automotive Awards recognise the work carried out by various players across the automotive value chain and highlight initiatives that drive innovation, competitiveness, collaboration and the generation of industrial wealth.
In this year’s edition, awards were presented in the categories of Vehicle Manufacturer, Basque Company, Mobility, Sectoral Outreach and Individual.
The winners of the 2026 edition were:
Vehicle manufacturer: RENAULT GROUP
For having spearheaded a remarkable business and industrial transformation, demonstrating an extraordinary capacity to adapt and evolve towards a more sustainable, connected and competitive model.
Basque company: RUBÍ AUTOMOTIVE
For its track record and for having successfully evolved over more than 70 years, establishing itself as a leading example of a Basque family business and a strategic supplier to the automotive industry.
Mobility Project: NUUK MOBILITY
For its commitment to innovation in mobility and its contribution to the development of advanced and sustainable solutions.
Individual: JESÚS MARÍA HERRERA, CEO of CIE Automotive
For his professional career and leadership skills, driving the growth of CIE Automotive to become one of the world’s largest automotive suppliers.
Industry Coverage: EL MUNDO, Motor section
For its work in raising awareness of and promoting the automotive sector, helping to bring it closer to the public and highlighting its strategic importance.
The awards ceremony took place yesterday at an official dinner at the AIC-Automotive Intelligence Centre, attended by over 160 representatives from the automotive sector, institutions and related stakeholders.





