Regional Deep Dive: AI-Driven Mobility Transformation in EMEA and APAC

The global mobility sector is undergoing a profound transformation, but nowhere is this more evident—or more complex—than in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) and APAC (Asia-Pacific) regions. Here, the convergence of electrification, digital ecosystems, and rapidly evolving consumer expectations is reshaping the landscape for automotive OEMs, mobility providers, and their partners. At the heart of this transformation is artificial intelligence (AI), which is not only optimizing operations but also enabling entirely new business models and customer experiences. Publicis Sapient, with its SPEED capabilities—Strategy, Product, Experience, Engineering, and Data & AI—stands at the forefront of this regional revolution, helping organizations move from imagination to realization in the age of digital mobility.

Navigating Regional Challenges: Electrification, Regulation, and Consumer Expectations

EMEA and APAC present unique challenges and opportunities for mobility transformation. The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is accelerating, but the pace and nature of adoption vary widely across markets. In Europe, ambitious net-zero targets and regulatory mandates are driving rapid electrification, yet infrastructure gaps and uneven charging networks remain significant hurdles. In APAC, markets like China are leading in EV production and adoption, while others are still building foundational infrastructure. Across both regions, regulatory environments are complex and evolving, requiring OEMs and mobility providers to be agile and responsive.

Consumer expectations are also shifting. Today’s drivers and passengers demand seamless, personalized, and connected experiences—whether they are purchasing a vehicle, accessing mobility services, or charging an EV. Meeting these expectations requires not just technological innovation, but a deep understanding of local market dynamics and cultural nuances.

AI as the Engine of Mobility Innovation

AI is the catalyst enabling organizations in EMEA and APAC to address these challenges and seize new opportunities. By embedding AI across the mobility value chain, companies can:

Optimize Operations: AI-driven platforms streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enable data-driven decision-making—from predictive maintenance to supply chain management.
Create New Value Propositions: Digital ecosystems powered by AI unlock new revenue streams, such as subscription services, usage-based insurance, and peer-to-peer mobility platforms.
Deliver Exceptional Experiences: Personalization, real-time engagement, and intuitive interfaces ensure that every interaction—whether with a driver, passenger, or partner—is meaningful and memorable.

Case Study: Renault Plug Inn—AI-Powered Community Charging in France

A standout example of AI-driven innovation is the Renault Plug Inn platform, developed in partnership with Publicis Sapient. Plug Inn is a peer-to-peer network that connects EV drivers to a vast ecosystem of home and business charging stations across France. By leveraging AI and real-time data, Plug Inn matches drivers with available charging points, predicts demand, and optimizes routes for convenience. The platform’s intuitive design and dynamic pricing create a seamless, trustworthy experience for both hosts and guests. In its first month, Plug Inn attracted over 8,000 users and registered 1,000 charging stations, demonstrating the power of AI to solve infrastructure challenges and foster community-driven value.

SPEED in Action: Publicis Sapient’s Regional Expertise

Publicis Sapient’s SPEED model ensures that every transformation initiative in EMEA and APAC is grounded in strategic vision, rapid product development, human-centered design, robust engineering, and advanced data and AI capabilities. This holistic approach is critical in regions where regulatory requirements, infrastructure maturity, and consumer behaviors can differ dramatically from market to market.

Strategy: Navigating complex regulatory landscapes and identifying market-specific opportunities for growth.
Product: Rapidly developing and scaling digital platforms tailored to local needs, such as digital showrooms and connected commerce solutions.
Experience: Designing intuitive, culturally relevant experiences that resonate with diverse customer segments.
Engineering: Building robust, scalable solutions that can be deployed across multiple markets, leveraging global delivery hubs and strategic technology partnerships.
Data & AI: Harnessing the power of data to drive personalization, predictive analytics, and operational excellence.

Actionable Strategies for OEMs and Mobility Providers

To succeed in EMEA and APAC, automotive leaders must:

Embrace Digital Ecosystems: Move beyond the vehicle to create interconnected platforms that serve drivers, passengers, and partners. This includes integrating sales, service, charging, and mobility offerings into seamless digital journeys.
Leverage AI for Personalization and Predictive Services: Use AI to anticipate customer needs, deliver tailored content and offers, and proactively address maintenance and service issues.
Build Scalable, Localized Solutions: Develop digital products and services that can be adapted to local market conditions, regulatory requirements, and consumer preferences.
Foster Collaboration Across the Value Chain: Partner with utilities, municipalities, and technology providers to build interoperable, data-rich ecosystems that accelerate innovation and adoption.
Prioritize Human-Centered, Responsible AI: Ensure that technology enhances—not replaces—the human element, fostering trust, emotional connection, and ethical outcomes.

Measurable Impact and Industry Recognition

Publicis Sapient’s AI-driven transformations in EMEA and APAC deliver tangible business results:

900% increase in test drives for global automakers through digital showrooms and personalized engagement
Improved conversion rates and customer satisfaction via predictive analytics and real-time data
New revenue streams and ecosystem participation through platforms like Plug Inn
Industry recognition for creativity, technology, and measurable value

The Road Ahead: Shaping the Future of Mobility in EMEA and APAC

As the transportation and mobility sector accelerates toward an AI-powered future, the need for partners who can deliver both innovation and operational excellence has never been greater. Publicis Sapient’s blend of visionary leadership, deep regional expertise, and proven SPEED capabilities positions it as a trusted advisor for organizations seeking to:

Embrace electrification and new mobility models
Build and scale digital ecosystems
Deliver differentiated, human-centered experiences
Achieve operational excellence through AI and data

The future of mobility in EMEA and APAC is being shaped today—by those who harness the power of AI to create value for people, businesses, and society. Publicis Sapient is proud to lead this transformation, helping clients move from imagination to realization in the age of digital mobility.

Ready to transform your transportation or mobility business in EMEA or APAC? Connect with Publicis Sapient’s experts to start your journey toward AI-driven experience excellence.