Tag: connected manufacturing

iFactory flourishes at BMW Debrecen

BMW’s Debrecen plant combines fossil-free energy, onsite battery assembly, and digital twins to produce the New Class. Designed as a scalable iFactory blueprint, it aligns product, factory, and process for an electric future.

Seeing what is invisible to others

ABB Robotics continues to advance the capabilities of automated mobile robots for lineside delivery of parts for assembly. The Flexley® Mover P603 is latest high payload autonomous robot that thinks in Visual SLAM

Visibility through invisible connections: How 5G is weaving a new automotive network

Automotive OEMs are embracing private 5G networks to drive digital twins, automation and AI. This shift enables safer, smarter and faster factories built on low-latency, high-security wireless connectivity.

Ilkhan Ozsevim

Benteler launches advanced manufacturing project in Morocco, integrating 4.0 tech

The Benteler Group has launched construction of a smart automotive plant in Morocco’s Kenitra Free Zone, aiming to strengthen its global footprint, boost local employment and embed digital manufacturing technologies.

BMW reinvents its Munich plant with AI, automation and digital logistics to support Neue Klasse production and meet rising demand in a constrained city-centre location

Speaking at the recent Automobil Produktion Kongress in Munich, Dr. Michael Nikolaides, BMW’s SVP of Production Network, Supply Chain Management and Logistics, laid out the company’s roadmap for the digitalisation of production and logistics operations.

Inside Dräxlmaier’s digital drive: COO Arno Güllering on AI, mindset shifts and global smart factory strategy

In a revealing interview at the Automobil Produktion Kongress in Munich, Arno Güllering, chief operating officer of Dräxlmaier Group, shares how the global supplier is accelerating its smart factory transformation. From unexpected digital frontrunners like Tunisia to the growing role of generative AI in maintenance, Güllering discusses his first-year priorities and why a shift in mindset is just as critical as technology.

How Arno Güllering wants DRÄXLMAIER Group to harness shopfloor visualisation and genAI in production and maintenance

The tier-1 supplier has established a highly connected production and logistics network, with a strong emphasis on data visualisation and a roadmap for AI. But to stay competitive and resilient, COO Arno Güllering wants to ensure both plants and HQ have a mindset ready to embrace change.

Mercedes-Benz blends AI, humanoid robots and craftspeople at its Digital Factory Campus to redefine the boundaries of human-machine collaboration in vehicle production

At its Digital Factory Campus in Berlin, Mercedes-Benz is pioneering new forms of human-machine interaction, from generative AI agents to humanoid robots, blending physical and digital intelligence in its production system.

BMW develops next-level digital manufacturing at Landshut and Regensburg plants

BMW’s Landshut and Regensburg plants showcase how AI, automation, and smart logistics are transforming component production into digitally driven, future-ready operations.

5G networking: How JLR is building smarter factories

As manufacturing operations become more data-driven, traditional network technologies are struggling to keep up. Steve Mason, JLR’s Advanced Digital Technologies Manager for Global Industrial Operations speaks to AMS about the integration of 5G networks into factory environments.

Edge computing and AI: Transforming manufacturing at the source

In modern manufacturing, edge computing is becoming a game changer, enabling faster, more secure, and more efficient operations. Steve Mustard, an expert with the International Society of Automation (ISA), spoke with AMS on how this technology is shifting traditional processes and how it’s set to evolve with artificial intelligence.

Honda’s $1bn redevelopment of its Ohio plants sets a global precedent in integrating EV, hybrid and ICE production with smart manufacturing and supplier transformation.

Honda North America’s upgraded Ohio operations will be its template for flexible production of ICE, hybrid and electric vehicles on a single line. Project lead Mike Fischer speaks to AMS about the goals, planning and execution behind this major production shift.

How digital twins, hybrid clouds and predictive AI are enabling connected manufacturing in the automotive industry

Automotive manufacturers are racing to connect systems, optimise production and secure supply chains through digital twins, hybrid clouds and AI. But legacy systems and organisational inertia remain major obstacles. By Ilkhan Ozsevim.

Toyota and Gorilla join forces to deploy AI warehouse tools and drive a global rollout of smart factory automation starting from Thailand

Toyota Material Handling Solutions Thailand is partnering with AI firm Gorilla Technology Group to co-develop intelligent warehouse tools. The collaboration launches in Thailand with a global rollout planned.

Future-ready: BMW’s digital transformation of its Munich plant and beyond

As the global automotive market pivots toward sustainability and electrification, BMW isn’t just adapting its product portfolio it’s reengineering the entire production operation, prioritising flexibility, digitalisation, and long-term operational efficiency. Plant Munich director, Peter Weber discusses the company’s approach to digitalising production.

At its Berlin Digital Factory Campus, Mercedes-Benz is boosting its connected manufacturing through AI, cloud platforms and human-machine collaboration across its global network

At its historic Berlin-Marienfelde plant, Mercedes-Benz is building a new model of connected manufacturing. Through MO360, AI and cloud integration, it is turning data into action across a globally standardised production network

Henkel’s digital battery simulation team accelerates EV battery design and development, cutting costly iterations and physical testing for faster market readiness

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with Henkel.Material supplier Henkel has created a new simulation team that is helping customers to be much faster and more efficient during battery design and development.

How ALM and PLM integration enhances collaboration, accelerates development and ensures compliance in automotive manufacturing

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with PTC.As the automotive industry transitions to software-defined vehicles, integrating Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems becomes crucial. This integration enhances cross-domain collaboration, accelerates product development, and ensures compliance with safety standards. Experts from PTC and Veoneer share insights on leveraging ALM-PLM integration to maintain competitiveness in this dynamic landscape.

Mercedes-Benz accelerates AI and robotics at Berlin-Marienfelde, transforming digital production with humanoid robots and next-generation automation technologies

At its Berlin-Marienfelde site, Mercedes-Benz is integrating artificial intelligence and humanoid robotics into automotive production. With new digital tools and axial-flux motor technology, the factory is setting new global standards for intelligent manufacturing.

Accelerating EV innovation transforms design and manufacturing processes as Toyota and Volkswagen lead cross-functional integration and digital twin adoption for future production

Industry experts at the AMS Evolution panel examine the accelerating EV shift and its impact on design and manufacturing. Toyota and Volkswagen share insights on engineering flexibility and digital twin simulation to streamline production

Why global automotive innovators must embrace Design For Manufacture to power production in an environment of increasing complexity and fierce foreign competition

Automotive manufacturers are streamlining production with Design for Manufacture (DFM), cutting complexity, reducing costs and driving EV innovation. In In this article, experts reveal the key strategies and digital tools that are reshaping vehicle production.

Volkswagen partners with Dassault Systèmes to accelerate software-defined vehicle development with the AI-powered 3DEXPERIENCE cloud platform

Volkswagen has selected Dassault Systèmes’ AI-powered 3DEXPERIENCE platform as its primary engineering and manufacturing system. The move aims to drive software-defined vehicle innovation, enhance efficiency and unify fragmented processes across the group.

Rockwell strengthens autonomous production logistics with Clearpath Robotics and OTTO Motors in a major move towards fully integrated smart manufacturing

Rockwell Automation has acquired Clearpath Robotics and its industrial division OTTO Motors, integrating autonomous mobile robots into its portfolio. The move signals a transformation in production logistics, optimising efficiency and connectivity across factories.

Audi is transforming vehicle production with AI-powered image processing, eliminating errors and setting new standards for quality control and smart factory innovation

Artificial intelligence is accelerating transformation in automotive production. Audi’s Industrial Computer Vision is proving how AI-driven image processing enhances quality control, minimises defects and paves the way for scalable smart factory innovation.

BMW drives CO2 reduction with workforce engagement: Transformation only succeeds with head and heart

The BMW Group is driving forward decarbonisation, digitalisation and modern leadership with ambitious CO2 targets and a clear strategy. Human Resources Board Member Ilka Horstmeier outlines the economic policy opportunities and challenges in this Q&A.

AI: Enhancing predictive maintenance in production lines

Unplanned downtime is costly and something that the automotive industry has been working hard to reduce through predictive maintenance strategies. AI now offers a significant step forward in real-time monitoring and data gathering and analysis.

VW Wolfsburg plant kicks-off Tayron production with precision and digital innovation

The VW main plant is once again producing four different models. After the Seat Tarraco is phased out, the VW Tayron is taking its place. Read how the start-up worked here.

Skoda’s Andreas Dick on driving flexible manufacturing, digitisation and the role of AI in transforming automotive production for future competitiveness

Two measures are at the top of Skoda’s new production boss, Andreas Dick’s, to-do list: digitalisation and flexibility. In the interview, he also reveals what impact the weak demand for electric cars has on his area of responsibility.

The digital production hub at BMW’s San Luis Potosi blends electrification, AI, and sustainability to lead the way in next-generation automotive manufacturing

BMW’s San Luis Potosi facility is a testbed for next-generation automotive production. From digital twins and AI to high-voltage battery assembly, it pioneers lean, green, and smart manufacturing to meet global demands for electrification and sustainability.

Exclusive: How Henkel is co-developing the EV batteries of the future at its Battery Engineering Center

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with HenkelHenkel, a global leader in adhesives, sealants and functional coatings, inaugurated its revolutionary Battery Engineering Center (BEC) within its Inspiration Center Düsseldorf (ICD) in November last year. Henkel invited AMS as its first visitor, to take a tour of the Battery Application Center (BAC) and Battery Test Center (BTC) within the BEC and the innovations happening inside.

BMW’s iFactory Network expands automated driving technology across production with Dingolfing now acting as testing ground

BMW’s dingolfing plant pioneers automated in-plant driving, achieving CE certification and setting a benchmark for efficiency in automotive production. Expansion across its global network is underway.

ZF’s Fernando Bera on prioritising real-time data and people-centric strategies for smart factory success

At the AMS Automotive Evolution NA 2024 event, Fernando Bera, Engineering Supervisor and Smart Factory Coordinator at ZF, outlined how real-time data and a people-focused approach are driving efficiency and quality improvements, shaping the company’s smart factory transformation.

AMS Automotive Evolution: Reducing costs, fast-tracking development, embracing change

The AMS Automotive Evolution conference in Detroit brought together leading car makers and tier suppliers to discuss managing production operations as the EV transition continues. AMS Editor Nick Holt shares some takeaways from the event.

Automotive leaders discuss strategies to bring electric vehicles within reach of the masses through cost-cutting, advanced technologies, and new approaches in North American manufacturing

At the AMS Evolution North America Conference, Ford and Gestamp leaders outlined strategies to slash production costs, tackle supply chain hurdles, and enhance manufacturing efficiency, laying out the groundwork for affordable EVs that meet consumer demand

Smart manufacturing: Data, AI, and digital transformation

The process of digitalising manufacturing operations continues to change rapidly with new software and hardware developments and the growing application of artificial intelligence, but challenges remain in optimising these opportunities.

Lowering costs through sustainable manufacturing

Sophisticated and complex technologies could be used to reduce costs and make manufacturing more eco-friendly, but simple solutions might be the most effective

Hyundai’s Metaplant America announces launch of 2025 IONIQ 5 to pioneer electric mobility

Hyundai’s new $7.59B Metaplant in Georgia gears up to commence production of the highly acclaimed 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5, reinforcing its commitment to pioneering EV technology and creating thousands of jobs in the region.

APK 2024 – Increasing circularity in automotive production

Circular economy programmes are becoming a key part of automotive manufacturing sustainability strategies, but these should be more ambitious says Dr Michael Riesener, speaking at this year’s Automobil Produktion Kongress.

Qualcomm’s collaborations with leading automakers to reshape automotive manufacturing

Partnerships with BMW, Mercedes, JLR and Mahindra revolve around automotive digital advancements and driving industry transformation.

Toyota’s huge production shutdown was due to a simple parts-ordering “system update”

The revelation should give pause for automotive production professionals to potentially rethink their systems and presents an opportunity for solutions

Continental digitises European automotive manufacturing plant with a private 5G Network

Continental’s innovative private 5G network accelerates production, enhances efficiency, and transforms the digital factory landscape, addressing automotive industry challenges.

Zeekr VP and plant director discusses mass volume EV production

Zhao Chunlin of Zeekr sits down with Michael Nash to talk about the company’s ‘intelligent factory’ in Ningbo, China, as well as the various challenges that come with EV production

Mercedes-Benz to implement ChatGPT across its MO360 digital production system

The deployment of ChatGPT through Mercedes-Benz’s partnership with Microsoft Azure will mean increased efficiencies across the OEM’s intelligent vehicle production landscape

A culture of quick decisions for Mercedes-Benz production

Jörg Burzer, the carmaker’s manufacturing chief, explains how it has reorganised its production network for electric vehicles and powertrains, while speeding up the rollout of digital tools. Now, another phase of change is just ahead.

Škoda sets sights on 70% EV mix by 2030, more climate-neutral plants in Czech Republic

Skoda production chief and VW Group veteran Michael Oeljeklaus sets out the Czech brand’s route map to more EVs and more efficiency in this exclusive interview.

Mercedes-Benz to deploy Microsoft connected factory software, eyes 20% efficiency boost

The software system will optimise manufacturing plans based on available components and enable easy monitoring of energy and water use and CO2 emissions.

Škoda trials 5G communications in lab, anticipating roll-out to manage factories

The Czech automaker is trialling the use of 5G communications as a low-latency solution to drive factory digital twins and automate some intra-plant logistics

How Ford will track production planning and suppliers like Uber rides

Ford is deploying digital twins and data analytics to bring real-time visibility to production planning and supply chains, according to Balakrishnan Adhi, who leads MP&L plant operations across Asia, Africa and South America.

Hyundai Motor Group to deploy Singtel 5G network at Singapore centre

The bandwidth the service offers will enable Hyundai to gather large volumes of data to optimise processes.

Watch: Connected factories, predictable futures

This AMS livestream explores how Ford, Fraunhofer IPA and other OEMs are advancing smart factories to optimise assembly lines, improve quality and reduce errors, leveraging connected data for digital twins and AI-driven manufacturing planning.

Watch: The future of production planning

Britishvolt, Jay Global Techno Alliance, HiveMQ and ABB experts agree there are opportunities for manufacturers and consumers in a globally connected manufacturing ecosystem.

Watch: The AI/data loop leading the digital revolution

Tomorrow’s digital smart factories will be more efficent, improve quality, cut costs and unlock insights into deeper automotive manufacturing say this panel of experts from BMW, Secondmind, ATS Global and Lancaster University.

Nokia provides 5G private wireless network for Volkswagen pilot project in Germany as part of flexibility drive

Nokia has provided a private 5G wireless network to support industrial connectivity at the production development centre and pilot hall at Volkswagen’s headquarters plant in Wolfsburg.

Watch: Shopfloor revolution – how data, software and AI are rebooting production

OEMs and suppliers are transforming vehicle production through data and connectivity as much as hardware, with new artificial intelligence opportunities emerging. Watch this AMS Livestream Hour to hear about the standards, systems and applications underpinning these changes, with insight from robotics experts at VDMA, AI robotics firm Symbio and Fraunhofer IPA.

Porsche production: moving faster around the bend

Porsche’s top manufacturing executive, Albrecht Reimold, explains the carmaker’s progress towards sustainable, connected manufacturing, and why he thinks the automotive industry needs to talk less and act more when comes to solving production problems

Volkswagen’s plan to digitise its global production network

Volkswagen is looking to completely overhaul its manufacturing capacity through a strategy of digitalisation across the North American region. Using artificial intelligence, cobots, and integrated in-house cloud systems, the company is laying the basis for its planned total upgrade of the entire global supply network.

Electrifying Europe: new EU ‘Fit for 55’ legislation effectively bans petrol and diesel engines by 2035

The EU’s latest salvo against the automotive industry to mitigate against climate change is the most radical yet, tightening emission targets more than previously announced and setting a timetable to eliminate combustion engines – all of which will ultimately transform automotive manufacturing and supply chain

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Discover the benefits of using an Advanced Planning & Scheduling (APS) system

The software-defined assembly line

The manufacturing industry is on the cusp of a revolution, where investment is led by software rather than hardware. That in turn enables a raft of new possibilities in creating the factory of the future, according to experts from Audi, ABB and Cosmo Tech.

Watch: Factory of the future Livestream – The software-defined assembly line

As automotive OEMs digitalise and connect factories, hear how the Audi Production Lab, ABB and Cosmotech are using real-time data, smart software and advanced automation to reshape vehicle production processes.

Electrification and digitalisation go hand in hand at Ford and VW

As the automotive industry electrifies, manufacturing is changing dramatically and OEMs are using big data to keep pace with that change. Increasingly moving into the world of tech, old quality control processes may no longer suffice since a lot of EV components cannot be reworked like traditional equivalents. Manufacturing has to be ultra-precise like never before.

Watch: Electrifying Production – How to build an electric future (Pt.2)

In the second part of our Electrifying Production Livestream series, AMS explores how OEMs are ramping up EV production through modular strategies, data analytics and advanced joining and metrology tools. Featuring Volkswagen Group, Ford, Renishaw and Atlas Copco.

Automation advances

AMS investigates how robotics can be adapted to a wider range of applications and the potential offered by 5G communications

5G networking spreads in car production

Certain companies have started leveraging 5G in their car manufacturing facilities in China with the hope of drastically increasing efficiency. Michael Nash provides an insight

Setting a fast pace

Chemical composition

The strength-ductility trade-off

Turbo-powering PSA Douvrin