Over the last few years, digital manufacturing technologies have given a huge boost to automotive manufacturing. With the advent of Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics, manufacturers have made vehicles “smarter”.
Benefits of digitalization in automotive manufacturing
Digital technologies have reshaped the way vehicles are manufactured, from the construction of individual parts to the final stages of vehicle assembly. Here are some of its benefits:
1. Minimized operational costs
Increasing output while controlling costs has certainly challenged OEM digitalization, but that is no longer an issue. For instance, augmented reality training boosts productivity, while smart building upgrades save energy. Some companies are even using forecasting software to reduce waste. But it is important to understand workforce barriers as well, because it makes adoption smoother and gradual rollout helps manage the change as a whole.
2. Advanced manufacturing capabilities
The use of digital technologies in manufacturing processes, such as robotics, automation, and predictive analytics, is transforming the production of vehicles. These technologies help auto manufacturers produce high-quality products at lightning speed. Automotive companies often rely on manual inspection and reactive approaches to address quality issues. Digital transformation introduces more proactive management powered by IoT, automation, and analytics. High-end, robust sensors are constantly monitoring calibration deviations or equipment anomalies, thus avoiding defects and costly rework. Here are a few applications:
- ML in Product Design – Automakers are increasingly using ML in product design, to automatically create multiple design ideas within specified parameters. It quickens the design testing process by creating virtual scenarios where the performance can be analyzed and improved upon.
- Smart Manufacturing Software – Connected workforce platforms helps to optimize production processes and resolve issues faster.
- Use of Robotics – Automotive manufacturers rely on advanced robotic technologies to produce parts with near-perfect accuracy and on a mass scale. Applications include assembly, welding, cutting, drilling, etc.
- Data Integration in Real-Time – Using data analytics, connected devices, and IoT sensors, manufacturers gather data and insights from multiple sources, which help to manage production, maintenance, inventory, and purchasing processes.
3. Optimized supply chain
The traditional model of complex automotive supply chains and logistics is undergoing a massive transformation. For example, IoT sensors and supply chain data platforms, offer real-time visibility into parts moving through the ecosystem. Digitalization in automotive manufacturing can prevent bottlenecks, while streamlining the supply chain and boost efficiency as well. As digital transformation in the automotive industry progresses, supply chain improvements go hand in hand. Manufacturers have to consistently balance adopting new technologies with strategic partnership-building across their supplier networks.
What are the key trends of digitalization in automotive manufacturing?
1) Regulatory requirements
Rigid environmental regulations and push for sustainable practices drive the adoption of digital technologies in the automotive industry. It includes development of more fuel-efficient vehicles, emissions monitoring, and integration of green technologies.
2) More competition
The automotive market is saturated with different automakers, vehicle models, and customization options. Automakers have a wide choice when it comes to parts suppliers for building vehicles. Quality, innovation, and cost-effectiveness are critical for staying relevant.
3) Consumer demand
It is being touted that 80% of vehicles on the road globally will be fully electric by 2050, and nearly all of these vehicles will be self-driving and connected. OEM digitization technologies will have to be developed with this trend in mind.
Digitalization in automotive manufacturing has completely changed the landscape of how vehicles are designed, along with quality and performance. As technology advances, production methods and techniques will become more sophisticated, resulting in more innovative and personalized vehicles. In the next decade, this sector can expect to see major changes driven by digitalization and the demand for electric vehicles.
