The automotive industry is undergoing massive changes. These changes are largely driven by technology trends that have the potential to disrupt the entire industry.
The most prominent technology trend is the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). EVs are helping to reduce carbon emissions, as well as saving consumers money in the long run.
1. 3d Printing
Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is one of the top technology trends in the automotive industry. It is changing product development, production and assembly processes, enabling new designs and competitive business models.
Using 3D printing, automotive manufacturers can quickly create prototypes that show off the look and feel of a car before producing it. Rapid prototyping also allows engineers to see how a part fits together and functions.
Several automakers, including Volkswagen and Ford, use 3D printing to optimize their production process by creating jigs, tools and fixtures. This helps reduce cycle time, labor and the need for rework.
2. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a technology that uses machine learning to mimic human thinking and decision making. This technology has revolutionized many industries, including the automotive industry.
AI can be used in various ways to make cars safer, more efficient and more environmentally friendly. For example, it can help prevent costly equipment breakdowns that stall production by using data from background noise, vibrations, and more to predict when machinery will need maintenance.
AI can also help auto manufacturers improve quality control by detecting defects up to 90% more effectively than humans. This can save the company a significant amount of money and help them maintain a high standard for their vehicles.
3. Virtual Reality
One of the top technology trends in the automotive industry is virtual reality. VR technology is a powerful tool for manufacturers and sales teams to create an immersive experience for their customers.
For example, a car manufacturer can use VR to offer customers a test drive or showroom experience from anywhere in the world. This increases customer loyalty and improves sales.
Vehicle manufacturers also use VR to train staff and engineers. The technology helps them master their job skills in a lifelike environment.
4. Augmented Reality
There are a number of ways that augmented reality is transforming the automotive industry. From showrooms and prototypes to automobile assembly and maintenance, augmented reality is impacting almost every aspect of the automotive world.
Manufacturing: AR enables engineers to verify and adjust assembly processes before physical models are produced. This improves efficiency and increases safety in the production process.
Field employees are also educated for factory assembly jobs before they arrive, reducing mistakes and improving productivity.
Similarly, maintenance and operational control teams can use AR to provide workers with immediate access to the latest user manuals or connect them with experts anywhere in the world. This improves safety and ensures continuous production and non-disruptive performance.
5. Connectivity
Connectivity is the ability of hardware and software to communicate with other devices, systems, and platforms. This includes cellular, Wi-Fi, and other wireless and wired protocols and standards.
The automotive industry uses connectivity to improve vehicle safety, reduce traffic congestion, and automate payments for fuel and tolls. This technology is also changing the way cars are designed and manufactured.
Connectivity also provides a platform for new customer-centric use cases, including predictive maintenance, design optimizations, and product cycle planning based on real-time usage data. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for OEMs to redefine the way people use their vehicles.
6. Biometric Seat Capabilities
Biometric seat capabilities are gaining popularity due to their convenience and security. These biometrics are used to identify individuals and access personal data.
The technology is also a great way to customize vehicle settings. For example, you could set your music preferences, favorite GPS searches, mirror positions, and seat distance from the steering wheel.
These systems also have the potential to save lives by monitoring a driver’s stress level and providing quick-responding alerts. They include sensors installed in the steering wheel and seat belts to enable automatic speed limitation, audio warnings, and ability to call emergency services.
7. Analytics
The automotive industry is one of the most advanced sectors when it comes to data analytics. It is constantly gathering and analyzing massive amounts of information on how to improve operations, customer experiences, and product design.
The data can be used to drive sales, optimize supply chains, and improve the product design process. It also helps automakers determine important customer experience factors for targeting specific marketing campaigns to boost revenue.
