Bosch CEO Urges Caution as Europe Risks Over-Regulating AI Sector
Bosch CEO Stefan Hartung has issued a strong warning to European lawmakers, stating that the continent risks “regulating itself to death” in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking at a tech conference hosted by Bosch in Stuttgart, Germany, Hartung emphasized that excessive regulation is delaying Europe’s AI future, especially in comparison to rapidly advancing global competitors like the U.S. and China.
Europe Falling Behind in AI Innovation?
“Europe is unnecessarily delaying its AI future with excessive regulation,” Hartung said during the event. As the CEO of one of Europe’s largest industrial technology firms and the holder of the most AI patents in the region, his concerns highlight growing unease within the private sector about the impact of stringent legislation on innovation.
Bosch is currently developing AI-driven solutions across autonomous driving, smart manufacturing, and energy-efficient systems, placing it at the heart of Europe’s AI race. Despite this, Hartung believes that “bureaucracy and vague rules” are undermining the region’s attractiveness for AI research and development.
Bosch Pledges €2.5 Billion AI Investment by 2027
To bolster its position, Bosch announced plans to invest an additional €2.5 billion ($2.9 billion) in AI technologies by the end of 2027. The investment underscores the company’s commitment to expanding its AI capabilities, particularly in critical industrial applications.
Hartung’s remarks come at a time when global AI competition is intensifying. In January, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a private sector-led AI infrastructure investment of up to $500 billion, adding further pressure on Europe to accelerate its AI strategies.
Call for a Simplified AI Regulatory Framework
Hartung suggested that European policymakers adopt a more focused regulatory framework that addresses only the most essential risks and guidelines. “We should regulate with foresight, not fear,” he said. “Otherwise, we will regulate ourselves to death because we are trying to regulate against technological progress.”
His statement echoes the sentiments of many European tech leaders who are concerned that over-regulation could stifle innovation, scare away investors, and drive talent to less restrictive regions.
Will Europe Find the Right Balance in AI Regulation?
As the European Union finalises the EU AI Act, Hartung’s comments add urgency to the debate on how to foster safe but dynamic AI innovation. The coming years will determine whether Europe can strike a balance between ethical oversight and technological progress or fall behind in the global AI race.
