Transformation Talks: Focus on global automotive manufacturing
THE CHALLENGES
In the current discussion about the future and transformation of the automotive industry, attention is mostly focused on the products: Who is ahead in smart, connected, data-driven, environmentally friendly, not to mention cost-effective electric vehicles?
In contrast, the “Transformation Talks” series focuses on two factors that are crucial to realizing the ambitious goals of transforming the automotive industry.
The first factor is production technology. It determines success in terms of costs and time-to-market – and not just for OEMs, but along the entire value chain. In other words, the suppliers and equipment suppliers, their networking and, finally, the intelligence with which these processes are systemically networked, planned and implemented.
The second decisive factor are the quality and availability of ecosystems in which this innovation takes place – or not. In addition to the incentives provided by transformation agencies, this also includes the acceptance of disruptions as well as the necessary qualifications and the ability to manage complex and networked processes.
Our “Transformation Talks” series will follow these developments. The format is designed as an open form of exchange. Facing the challenges of the industry requires an international perspective. Supply chains and the new value creation networks span the entire globe.
This is why we invite experts and practitioners from the automotive industry who share their view on international markets. The online events in MS Teams are freely accessible.
TOPICS
26 September 2025
Dual Track: How the German automotive industry is securing future EV production and maintaining the markets for combustion engines
October - December 2024
- The digital shopfloor: How to motivate and “embrace” employees in production worldwide for digitalization
- Morocco: The new hub for automotive production and international supply chains
- Brazil & Mexico: Latin America’s role in the new global value chains of manufacturing.
Dual-track: The challenge of managing EV and ICE production in parallel
26 SEP 2024 – 15:00 CEST
Different and contradictory regulatory signals for the future of electric cars are coming from the international markets, especially the important US market.
For companies, this dual reality necessitates operating on two fronts for an extended period:
- Firstly, they must uphold the already stringent standards for internal combustion engines (ICE), ensuring sustainability, maintaining high-quality production, managing intricate global supply chains efficiently with data-driven intelligence, and preserving the expertise of employees, suppliers, and logistics partners.
- Secondly, companies are locked in intense global competition to swiftly adopt new, more efficient technologies and future-proof platforms for electric vehicle (EV) production. The race intensifies in crucial areas like battery technology and software development, prompting suppliers and equipment providers to seek out niches in the evolving landscape of “giga-factories”.
Simultaneously addressing these challenges while optimizing manufacturing processes, from just-in-sequence to build-to-order production, is paramount for most suppliers and manufacturers. Key objectives include:
- Rethinking the factory
- Increasing automation to enhance efficiency and reduce costs
- Leveraging Industry 4.0 initiatives for enhanced manufacturing technology and supply chain visibility
- Establishing resilient supply chains with real-time adaptability
- Integrating diverse devices such as robotics throughout production facilities
The pressure on suppliers and logistics companies globally has reached unprecedented levels as the industry grapples with margin management and the fallout from recent challenges. This webinar (or series) delves into the complexities of production technology amidst shifting global markets and trends, offering strategies for navigating these hurdles effectively – as well as strategies for mastering these challenges.
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