Quality
GM Ventures invests $10m in Forge Nano to improve EV battery performance and reduce costs
General Motors and Forge Nano have entered a strategic partnership agreement to collaborate on atomic layer deposition applications for GM’s electric vehicle batteries.
New eBook: Better, faster, more affordable EV battery manufacturing
A new eBook by Hexagon explores insights to help you make high quality, low cost EV batteries.
How cobots can support automotive production
Cobots enrich the industry with their ability to complete tasks in close cooperation with humans and are becoming increasingly intelligent thanks to modern technologies.
EV battery testing – new software supports testing rapidly changing battery technologies
New battery technology is being developed, and testing companies are focused on the same old parameters. But change could be on the horizon with new software.
European battery production needs greater speed and agility
Exhibitors at this year’s Battery Show in Stuttgart shared insights into EV and battery production challenges and how the industry needs to adapt with greater speed.
In Emden, VW wants to leave the Passat behind
Volkswagen is using the latest production technology and some novel in-plant logistics to ramp up EV production in Emden
Designing manufacturing systems for flexibility and scalability
Comau discusses assembling e-drives, developing battery manufacturing solutions, and collaborations with universities for next-generation cells.
Hyundai’s Metaplant America begins 2025 IONIQ 5 production
Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America has revealed plans to kick off production of the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5, marking a significant milestone in electric vehicle manufacturing.
BMW opens first North American press shop at Spartanburg, debuts new X3
BMW’s Spartanburg plant opens a $200M press shop, introduces new X3, and announces all-electric vehicle production by 2026
Quality data drives F1 peak performance
High quality components and manufacturing data are key to on-track success. Oracle Red Bull Racing offered AMS a glimpse of its engineering operations.
Sames solves for BMW & Mercedes: Adhesive tech in bodyshop & glazing
Sames innovates with custom adhesive solutions for BMW & Mercedes, enhancing carbon fiber body assembly and glazing applications with tailored systems and rigorous testing.
Exclusive: BMW Group improves efficiency with additive manufacturing gripper
AMS visited BMW Group’s Additive Manufacturing Campus and plant in Munich to see it 3D-printed bionic robot grippers, which are saving costs and emissions and improving efficiency across its plants.
Q&A with Patrice Haettel: CEO of powertrain tech firm, HORSE
We interviewed powertrain producer HORSE’s CEO, Patrice Haettel, to talk battery tech, flexible production, sustainability, data, digitalisation, and more
OEMS agree co-creative collaboration is key
We need to work together. That much is clear. The need for closer collboration and co-creation through this closer working is key to automotive. Across manufacturing, design and engineering; a wider view is necessary for the progress of the whole. This is a theme that keeps croppping up and Design4Production reemphasised this need once again…
How Mercedes-Benz and Seat are transforming their plants
Both Mercedes-Benz and Seat are transforming their plants to increase sustainability and digitalisation, but it hasn’t all been smooth sailing.
Balancing digitalisation with production output
Automobil Produktion Kongress 2024 brought together leaders in the industry to disuss the growing importance of digital transformation in manufacturing
Quality control: 3D vision inspection systems
LMI Technologies offers insights into current trends in automotive quality control requirements and the technology solutions available.
BMW builds gigafactory for Neue Klasse in Mexico
BMW Group has started construction of a battery manufacturing facility next to its San Luis Potosi plant in Mexico to safeguard Neue Klass production in 2027 and cut transport emissions
Perfecting paint transfer
The paintshops an area where throughput, quality and sustainability need to be carefully balanced. Sames, looks at key areas where efficiencies can be made.
Toyota invests $1.4B in US manufacturing for new BEV SUV
Toyota ramps up its commitment to US manufacturing with a $1.4 billion investment, bringing an all-new battery electric SUV to Indiana
Audi: “We have a clear strategy towards electromobility”
Gerd Walker illuminates Audi’s innovative strategies for sustainable, flexible production and the transition to electric vehicles
Artificial intelligence – New developments in surface inspection
AI and automation are becoming key technologies for surface inspection in the paintshop.
Reshaping the future: Developments in automotive production engineering
A picture of the fast-paced world of automotive production engineering as it navigates the transition to electric vehicles and digitalisation
Compas wins category for site transformation at FYA: Interview with Santiago Jurado, chief quality officer
Santiago Jurado, chief quality officer at Compas talks managing complexity across different brands (Mercedez-Benz and Nissan) and several architectures on a single production line as the company takes category win at the Factory of the Year Awards.
Bridgestone commits record €207m investment in Burgos tyre plant, Spain
Bridgestone’s Burgos initiative aims to boost productivity by 20% to meet the rising demand for premium tires in Europe. By implementing automation, expanding vulcanisation capacity and introducing an automatic high bay warehouse, Bridgestone looks to leverage BCMA for enhanced operational efficiency and agility.
“Our future viability is not a given”: BMW Leipzig’s plant manager Petra Peterhänsel
BMW Leipzig has a unique approach to its production operations and we explore its approach as it prepares for ramp-up of the Countryman: Petra Peterhänsel offers valuable insight
Toyota Alabama Launches i-FORCE line enhancing Tacoma’s performance
The launch of the i-FORCE 2.4L turbo engine line for enhanced Tacoma at Toyota Alabama affirms the OEMs commitment to diversified powertrains and job security
Powertrain – Reducing waste in machining fluids
JLR offers a very interesting sustainability case study on powertrain production processes at its Electric Propulsion Manufacturing Centre.
Porsche plant in Leipzig wins Factory of the Year
The Porsche plant is set to begin producing the new all-electric Macan SUV using the PPE platform.
The co-evolution of EVs, architectures and production processes
Electric vehicles are reshaping manufacturing norms, from platform flexibility to crash protection systems, challenging traditional designs and material choices amidst evolving battery technologies. ArcelorMittal and Gestamp dive into challenges and solutions.
Henkel supports innovation with Battery Engineering Center
Experts at Henkel, a global leader in adhesives, sealants and functional coatings, explain the benefits of the new Battery Engineering Center, and how it solidifies Henkel’s role as a premier design and innovation partner for OEMs in the automotive industry.
The state and stipulation of automotive production: Retrospect 2023 to prospect 2024
In 2023, the automotive industry underwent a transformative journey, adapting to trends such as sustainable materials, electric vehicle dominance and digitalisation. But what clues does 2023 provide about the vehicle manufacturing landscape in 2024?
AMS Winter 2023/24 – BMW’s battery boost
BMW is aiming to achieve ‘expertise in every cell’ of its generation six batteries
Additive manufacturing and simulation technologies: an agile and resilient powerhouse in engine development
Punch Torino elevates automotive engine production through collaboration with Markforged, a leader in additive manufacturing. This partnership fuels the creation of 3D-printed tools, including camshaft locking tools and simulation technology. By tackling crucial challenges and streamlining design iterations, the partnership achieves enhanced efficiency, cuts costs and contributes to the promotion of sustainable mobility within the automotive industry. Here’s how…
How battery and electric motors and EVs are reshaping the European automotive supply chain
How major automakers adapt to the EV surge, transforming manufacturing and supply chains. Delve into the strategic shifts at Ford, JLR, and Volkswagen, the rise of Chinese suppliers, and the regulatory forces reshaping the automotive landscape. Join us on a concise journey through Europe’s electrifying automotive future
Renault announces Re-Industry roadmap to transform production base
Renault Group’s Re-Industry initiative aims to transform its manufacturing base for cost efficiency and sustainability by leveraging the Industrial Metaverse, AI applications, and agile practices.
JLR accelerates digital transformation with Tata connecting 128 global sites
JLR partners with Tata Communications to revolutionize its digital network, paving the way for enhanced production, real-time data analysis, and seamless connectivity across its global operations. A key milestone in JLR’s Reimagine strategy.
Stellantis’ FBD brainstorms to solve automotive production challenges
The eighth instalment of Factory Booster Day produced ninety-nine solutions demonstrated by sixty-four partners to tackle thirty-five Stellantis plant challenges setting an example to other OEMs
Advanced materials application for EV battery production
SAMES discusses how its technologies and experience can be instrumental in ensuring the quality and safety of EV batteries.
How BMW will maintain quality in its 3,000-step battery cell production process
At its recently opened German Cell Manufacturing Competence Centre (CMCC) in Parsdorf, BMW is aiming to achieve ‘expertise in every cell’ of its generation six batteries for its Neue Klasse EV models.
Hyundai partners with PIF for automated production plant in Saudi Arabia
Hyundai Motor Company has entered into a joint venture agreement with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia to establish “a highly automated vehicle manufacturing plant,” in the kingdom. Hyundai to lead as as strategic technology partner.
Back in the USA
The AMS Automotive Evolution North America event delivered expert panels and a fully engaged audience. Here are some of the highlights from the sessions.
The future of Ford in a flash of lightning
The Ford Dearborn Truck Plant is a benchmark for managing complexity, quality and software. Plant manager Corey Williams shares learnings and lean principles across ICE and fast-growing EV output.
Watch: Automated weld seam inspection of EV-battery trays with VIRO WSI
An EV battery tray typically has many welds. But even one defect weld risks stability, tightness, and safety
Skoda Kvasiny to become electromobility powerhouse
Head of Skoda Kvasiny plant, Miloš Halbich discusses how the plant continues to evolve to meet market developments
How Vitronic’s Weldloop software reimagines the welding process
Find out how Weldloop’s technology achieves quality enhancements in automotive welding through machine vision technology.
New motor technology to transform electric vehicle production
Opher Doron of EVR Motors describes how a novel electric motor design could have a dramatic impact on vehicle production and the electric vehicle market
Volta Trucks partners with ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions for core systems for its all-electric urban delivery truck
Scandinavian electric vehicle OEM, Volta Trucks, partners with ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) to leverage their expertise and technologies
Supporting ADAS – AMS Expert Interview with Henkel
In this podcast we look at the production challenges and solutions for high-resolution camera modules in ADAS vehicles
Forming innovations – press shops get smarter
Digital tools are playing a major part in innovating press shop operations with data gathering and AI increasing the visibility and efficiency of the forming process
Neckarsulm – Audi’s plant prepares for more electric vehicles
Audi’s Neckarsulm plant manager Fred Schulze discusses sustainability and digitalisation
Case Study: Daimler Relies Upon HiveMQ During Automotive Manufacturing
Learn how and why Daimler uses HiveMQ to manage information flow between vehicle diagnostics system test devices on the factory floor and server-side enterprise IT systems
Heat-treatment – AMS Expert Interview with Nitrex
Jason Orosz, president of Global Heat-Treating Services at NITREX, speaks with AMS about the applications for specialist surface treatments in the latest vehicle components
Focus on flexibility – optimising battery pack production
The AMS Evolution Livestream expert panel representing Ford, AMTE Power and Henkel, discussed fast-changing EV battery production requirements.
Powering up: AMTE ramps up cell production volume
AMTE CEO Alan Hollis discusses ramping up cell production, establishing a new Gigafactory and developing a flexible, sustainable manufacturing approach
Shaping the future – Developing electric vehicle architectures
In our AMS Evolution Livestream experts from ArcelorMittal and Gestamp tackle EV production challenges and explain how digital tools, new technologies, processes and materials innovations could help solve some key issues
Form and function: Developing production processes and structures for electric vehicle architectures
The new electric vehicle architectures are also continuing to evolve as vehicle makers strive to find the optimum balance between platform flexibility, while also being viable for high-volume production. To get some insights in to this ongoing process AMS spoke with Paul Belanger, Gestamp’s R&D Director for North America
Solving electric vehicle production challenges with smart manufacturing and logistics
Siemens discusses how the latest digital tools are enabling the transition to e-mobility and explains why these are now essential to OEMs and tier suppliers if they are to create transparent, sustainable supply chains
Kia starts building facility for electric purpose-built vehicle (PBV) production
The new plant will be dedicated to production of Kia’s electric PBVs, with planned annual capacity of 150,000 units
Sustainability: Fossil-free steel
As vehicle makers set ambitious targets to reduce their carbon footprint in production operations, experts from steel producer SSAB share some insights into how the company has responded to this important requirement with the development of fossil-free steel
Tools for progress: real-time tracking and monitoring in Audi’s toolmaking
The carmaker’s Toolmaking 4.0 system is bringing greater visibility of suppliers and potential disruption of machines and operations at tool shops, with high productivity gains.
BMW Group’s Leipzig plant prepares production of electric Mini Countryman
The company says this will be the first time that a Mini model is produced entirely in Germany
BMW 3.0 CSL going into production at Dingolfing plant this spring
The company is building an exclusive small series with a limited edition of just 50 models. The assembly process for one vehicle will take almost two weeks
Bentley starts work on new Launch Quality Centre and Engineering Technical Centre
Bentley says the new facility will be integral to its preparations for future battery-powered electric vehicle production
Dacia – building on a successful formula
Speaking to AMS, Carlos Carrinho, General Manager Dacia Vehicle plant Mioveni, discusses the factory’s unique position within the realm of European car manufacturing and how it has been continuously developing to meet future production challenges
Honda Alabama starts production of all-new Pilot
Honda’s Alabama plant requires substantial production changes to build all-new Pilot SUV
AMS Winter 2022-23 – M-power in Mexico
In this latest AMS digital edition we have features on BMW’s San Luis Potosi facility in Mexico, Ford’s planned European Electrification Centre at Cologne, CATL’s battery cell production operations in Europe, ZF’s upgrading of its plants for EVs and electronics, and more.
Welcome to Automotive Evolution Europe 2022!
Editor-in-Chief Christopher Ludwig kicks off the 1st Automotive Evolution Europe
Painting a brighter day: increasing speed, reducing errors in paintshop
SAMES and FANUC joined the eighth panel at Automotive Evolution Europe to discuss optimising processes and reducing waste in the paintshop.
Material matters: body, forming and process transformation
Teknia, ArcelorMittal and SSAB joined the seventh panel at Automotive Evolution Europe to discuss how new technology and materials are ushering in new innovations in manufacturing.
Managing an uncertain future in manufacturing
S&P Global Mobility, Magswitch and Next e.GO Mobile joined the fourth panel at Automotive Evolution Europe to discuss the volatile production environment, to which OEMs and suppliers must respond to mitigate disruption to production.
A tipping point: European automotive manufacturing outlook
AMS Automotive Evolution Europe’s third session was a presentation focused on analysis and forecasts for the European automotive sector from S&P Global Mobility.
Data at the heart of Europe’s manufacturing evolution
Audi, BMW and AWS joined the opening panel at Automotive Evolution Europe to discuss opportunities in data analytics, artificial intelligence, digital simulation, the industrial cloud and tools that support them.
AMS Electric Vehicles – The road to e-mobility
In this latest AMS digital edition we will look closely at how manufacturers are developing and finetuning their electric powertrain technologies, platforms and production processes, with in-depth features on Skoda, GM, Ford, Volta Trucks, REE Automotive and more.
After baptism of fire, BMW plant has room to grow in Mexico
Under Mexico plant director Harald Gottsche, BMW has launched new models during the pandemic, navigated supply disruptions, integrated new technology and maintained staff levels – and it’s ready to expand.
Adjusting to a new climate: Alternative powertrain testing
AMS visited a newly upgraded test facility to get an insight into the equipment and process requirements for electric and fuel cell powertrains
The future of quality management in the automotive industry
Siemens discusses how the automotive industry must adapt its approach to quality management to meet new market challenges
White Paper: Nikon’s Laser Radar heralds a paradigm shift in automotive metrology
Nikon Metrology has been implementing automated, absolute measurement on the shop floor for many years. The APDIS Laser Radar is a significant step forward in the evolution of technology and is especially suited for the automotive industry.
What Vorsprung durch Technik means for Audi manufacturing in 2022
Audi is making progress in production through virtual reality, AI and software prototype builds, modular assembly, quality control and energy conservation.
Cars à la carte – Audi trials modular production to control customisation costs
The premium OEM is applying the efficiency focus that has fine-tuned production lines over many years to the more bespoke tasks in modular assembly as EV and supply complexity increases.
Whitepaper: Flexible & modular manufacturing made easy
Discover how to improve flexibility, sustainability, quality, and throughput while enabling cost efficiency in this exclusive whitepaper
Hyundai Motor Group to deploy Singtel 5G network at Singapore centre
The Korean automaker will use the high capacity bandwidth to gather data for quality control purposes.
Watch: New magic in the dark art of lightweighting
Ignacio, Jérôme and Prof. Volk explain the magic behind the art of lighweighting all whilst factoring in cost, performance, safety concerns and the impact on manufacturing process.
Watch: A holistic approach to sustainable vehicle production
Hans Pehrson, Owain Griffiths and Thomas Hörnfeldt emphasise the importance of moving towards a greener model to meet sustaibility targets - whether it’s whole-of-vehicle manufacturing or greening the global supply chain.
Fast fashion – how Tata is keeping up with changing tastes in India’s car market
India remains a value-focused market but motorists have grown more discerning.
Watch: Scaling up battery cell production
AMTE Power’s Kevin Brundish and Hexagon’s Ignazio Dentici discuss the challanges and opportunities in battery gigafactory development.
Watch: Global automotive parts manufacturer saves nearly $2M with energy insight solutions
Learn how this global automotive parts manufacturer avoids costly downtimes and ensures equipment reliability
AMS exclusive: Industry insiders discuss moving from ‘business as usual’ and establishing robust ecosystems in EV battery production
Increasing lithium-ion battery cell and pack production has become a priority for automotive manufacturers as the need for further electric vehicle output increases.
AMS January-March 2022 – Volvo’s mega changemaker
Javier Varela discusses Volvo Cars’ investment in new technologies, EV platforms and sustainability
Watch: Maximum safety on battery housings by automated weld seam inspection
Maximum safety on battery boxes: more than 150 seams have to be inspected. VIRO WSI inspects and finds all defects
VW commits $7.1 billion investment to expand EV manufacturing footprint in North America
Volkswagen has committed a $7.1 billion investment to boost its product line-up, R&D capabilities and manufacturing capacity in North America across the next five years.
Mercedes-Benz opens Alabama battery plant and will partner with Envision AESC for regional cell supply
Mercedes-Benz has opened a new battery assembly plant in Bibb County, Alabama, which will build electric vehicle battery packs that will supply production of the all-electric Mercedes-EQ ahead of the beginning of series production this spring at the Mercedes-Benz US International (MBUSI) plant nearby in Tuscaloosa.
Ineos prepares for production
As Ineos moves towards a second phase of prototypes for production, AMS visited the company’s new automotive manufacturing plant in Hambach, France to see how production of its Grenadier 4x4 is developing.
