Jos van Kleef succeeded Ward Koopmans as chairman of the ADAS Alliance on 1 January 2025. He is no stranger to the world of smart mobility and road safety. Van Kleef started his career in 1986 at HBW and made a name for himself as CEO of both Vialis and Goudappel. Under his leadership, both organisations grew into market leaders in the Netherlands and also managed to gain a foothold internationally. The first months as chairman of the ADAS Alliance are now behind us – high time to get to know him a little better. “My passion for technology and innovation, especially when it comes to road safety, has always been my driving force.”

Van Kleef has a solid technical and administrative background. After his studies at TU Delft, he worked in various political-administrative environments. For example, as general manager of Vialis, he was involved in the introduction of the OV chip card and the introduction of Intelligent Speed Adoption, specifically aimed at road safety. At Goudappel, he also worked on innovations that improve mobility and safety. “These were complex and challenging projects involving stakeholders with diverse interests,” says Van Kleef.

A consequence of the many years that he has worked in the mobility sector is that Van Kleef has an extensive network of organizations that are active in 'the world of ADAS'. "I will certainly use these contacts to support the goals of the ADAS Alliance," says Van Kleef. "It is important to mention that as chairman I am completely independent, not tied to any organization. That guarantees my objectivity in this role." Incidentally, this also applies to the other position that he currently fulfills as independent chairman of the Advisory Board of Connekt.

With Van Kleef at the helm, the ADAS Alliance aims to contribute to improving road safety through the use of driver assistance systems. The ADAS Work Plan 2025/2026 forms the basis for this. “That plan rests on three pillars,” Van Kleef explains. “We want to (1) increase drivers’ knowledge of the presence of ADAS in vehicles, (2) improve knowledge of how ADAS works and (3) stimulate the safe use of ADAS.” In doing so, the alliance is explicitly seeking active cooperation with all participants. “Many participants have already taken action in recent years, but there is still much to do and much to achieve.” The ADAS Alliance offers active assistance, coordination and guidance, but also provides research, knowledge exchange, workshops and a lively community.

Van Kleef: “I look forward to using my knowledge, experience and network to help the ADAS Alliance move forward and achieve its goals.”