Truckmakers upbeat as trade show starts in Hanover

World truck makers were optimistic about huge opportunities in emerging markets Thursday at the IAA truck fair in Hanover. "The technological potential in this sector has not yet been fully tapped," said German Automobile Industry Federation (VDMA) President Matthias Wissmann in a speech opening the biennial event.

Emerging economies with rapid rates of growth have helped cheer truck makers amid concern of recession in the West.

Expanding industry and commerce in Russia, South America and South Africa mean much larger numbers of trucks are needed to deliver goods.

That growth is also reflected in the growing number of Russian, Indian and Chinese truck builders with booths at the IAA fair.

"Wherever there are expanding economies, they need trucks," explained Stephan Schaller, chief executive of Volkwagen's commercial vehicles division.

Wissmann said he sees opportunities for the industry in reducing emissions that cause climate change and improving the safety of trucks and vans.

Earlier this week, Germany's Environment Ministry highlighted how cutting emissions does not just mean reducing fuel use, but also replacing climate-killer gases in truck refrigeration and air- conditioning systems.

The expo, one of the world's biggest, runs through October 2 and has attracted more than 2,000 manufacturers of trucks, buses, vans and related technology.

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