A rebounding automotive industry has Texas lawmakers clearing the way for the next competition for an assembly plant and Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce officials intensifying their efforts to play a larger role in the global automotive industry, especially as technology changes how consumers think about vehicles.

"Cars are changing; the industry is changing," said Adrianna Cruz, vice president of global corporate recruitment at Opportunity Austin, the chamber's economic development arm.

"Even though traditional manufacturing is something we're going to target," Cruz said, "Austin could also play a huge role as cars become smarter, cleaner and safer."

Cruz said Austin can leverage its technology base, the University of Texas' research muscle and the city's lifestyle to capture at least a piece of the auto industry.