Member Portal Join Now Resources
Explore the IAF - Hero Background

Explore the IAF

The International Automotive Federation (IAF) is a global alliance dedicated to shaping the future of mobility. We bring together manufacturers, innovators, policymakers, and technical experts to set standards, drive sustainability, and foster safer, smarter transport systems worldwide.

International Automotive Federation (IAF)

The International Automotive Federation is an independent global authority guiding the safe, sustainable, and intelligent evolution of mobility.

Founded to answer the urgent need for harmonized automotive oversight, IAF develops forward‑looking standards and accreditation programs that unify manufacturers, suppliers, regulators, and innovators under one trusted framework.

What is IAF & Why Was It Founded?

The International Automotive Federation (IAF) is a global, independent organization established to contribute to the safe, sustainable, and intelligent evolution of mobility. As the automotive industry enters a new era shaped by electric drivetrains, autonomous technologies, and digital connectivity, IAF aims to serve as a collaborative platform for addressing emerging needs through shared standards and responsible guidance.

Recognizing the growing complexity of vehicles and transportation systems, IAF plans to support stakeholders—governments, manufacturers, certification bodies, and consumers—by offering a harmonized framework that promotes transparency, comparability, and continuous improvement across borders.

Rather than replacing existing regulations or national frameworks, IAF envisions complementing them through internationally aligned approaches that help reduce duplication, streamline evaluations, and encourage innovation. By fostering open dialogue among technical experts, policymakers, and industry leaders, the federation seeks to build consensus on what constitutes reliable, safe, and future-ready automotive practices.

At its foundation, IAF is guided by a commitment to integrity, scientific rigor, and global cooperation. Its long-term goal is to become a trusted reference point in the mobility ecosystem—where collaboration leads to better outcomes for public safety, environmental performance, and technological advancement.

What Does IAF Do?

Developing Internationally Recognizable Automotive Standards

IAF is working on a set of structured, performance-based standards that cover critical domains such as vehicle safety, cybersecurity, environmental responsibility, and smart mobility systems. These standards are being designed to be both technically rigorous and practically applicable—encouraging global alignment while allowing flexibility for regional needs.

Establishing a Trusted Accreditation Framework

The federation intends to develop a global accreditation system for independent testing, inspection, and certification bodies. This framework will be built on transparency, impartiality, and technical competence, allowing products, services, and organizations to demonstrate compliance with IAF-developed criteria in a globally comparable manner.

Supporting an Inclusive and Competent Member Network

IAF plans to build a diverse membership network comprising manufacturers, suppliers, researchers, auditors, institutions, and individual professionals. The goal is to create an open community where expertise is shared, solutions are co-developed, and new members can actively participate in the shaping of standards and best practices.

Enhancing Consumer Confidence through Clear Communication

One of IAF’s core intentions is to simplify the communication of technical compliance and safety information to consumers. Through recognizable labels, QR-verifiable certifications, and user-friendly materials, the federation seeks to make trust visible—ensuring that certified products and services are easy to understand and verify.

Encouraging Dialogue and Harmonization Across Borders

IAF is committed to acting as a neutral facilitator between public and private stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, industry leaders, and international organizations. By promoting shared language and aligned expectations, the federation hopes to contribute to greater interoperability, safety consistency, and global market efficiency.

Contributing to Future-Oriented Research and Innovation

IAF aims to invest in knowledge development by launching studies, pilot programs, and working groups in areas such as autonomous systems, digital vehicle infrastructure, and lifecycle-based sustainability. These initiatives will support evidence-based decisions and promote innovation aligned with societal values and long-term goals.

Curious about our upcoming standards? You can explore the frameworks currently under development and open for review.

View in Developöment Standards

Who Can Join IAF?

IAF is being established as an open and inclusive platform that welcomes diverse stakeholders from across the global mobility ecosystem. Whether institutional or individual, public or private, experienced or emerging—any party committed to improving safety, sustainability, and digital trust in the automotive domain is encouraged to participate.

The federation’s membership is structured around functional roles and areas of contribution, rather than formal tiers. Each member type brings unique perspectives and value to the collective mission.

Industry Members

Automotive manufacturers, parts suppliers, technology providers, and mobility solution companies can join IAF to contribute their expertise and collaborate on the development of practical, forward-looking standards. Industry members may also engage in testing programs, labeling pilots, and working groups.

Association & Civil-Society Members

Trade associations, transport safety organizations, consumer rights groups, and civil society actors are invited to participate. Their role is vital in ensuring that mobility standards are inclusive, socially responsible, and reflective of broader community needs.

Government & Regulatory Members

Public agencies, transport ministries, and regulatory authorities can join IAF to exchange knowledge, align efforts, and contribute to global harmonization. IAF aims to support—not replace—national regulation through international dialogue and shared technical language.

Academic & Research Members

Universities, research institutions, and technical labs may participate by providing evidence, critical reviews, and innovation foresight. IAF strongly believes that standardization should be grounded in science, and research members play a key role in that process.

Individual Membership – Professionals & Experts

Engineers, auditors, designers, lawyers, and subject-matter experts across relevant fields are welcome to apply for individual membership. Professionals can participate in technical committees, contribute to drafts, and support training activities. Join our community to shape the future of mobility with your expertise.

Individual Membership – Students & Innovators

IAF also welcomes the next generation of mobility leaders. Students, early-career researchers, and startup innovators may participate through mentorship programs, open calls, and challenge projects. Join our community and be part of tomorrow’s standards.

Observer / Honorary Members

Experts, retired professionals, and invited guests may join IAF as observer or honorary members. These individuals may not hold formal voting rights, but their insights and contributions are recognized and valued in advisory and honorary capacities.

IAF operates not through hierarchy, but through shared purpose. Every member—regardless of background—has the potential to drive safer, smarter, and more sustainable mobility.

Need help with membership?

If you're unsure which membership type suits you or how to apply, our team is here to assist with guidance and onboarding support.

Explore Membership

Our Network, Our Members

From regional OEMs to global tech pioneers, IAF unites a diverse community committed to shaping tomorrow’s mobility.

  • Active global outreach across key mobility regions
  • Strategic onboarding of founding corporate & expert members
  • Monthly roundtables, knowledge-sharing & draft consultations
  • Early-stage collaborations with research & policy networks

…and many more benefits designed to amplify your impact in the evolving mobility ecosystem.

Join the Federation
See Our Network

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Global Mobility

Be part of a powerful movement driving safer, smarter, and more sustainable transportation systems worldwide. Connect with leaders, influence policies, and co-create the automotive innovations of tomorrow with the International Automotive Federation.

Become a Member Explore Membership