Automotive manufacturers faced extreme adversity over the last few years, including the sweeping impact of COVID-19 and the continued chip shortage. The 2022 State of Smart Manufacturing Report surveyed these businesses about their challenges, and how they are using or intend to use technology solutions to meet them.
This study from Plex Systems, a Rockwell Automation company, in collaboration with Hanover Research, surveyed 321 global manufacturers who communicated the need for agility, technology adoption, and improved processes to respond to market adversity.
The top 3 key findings are:
Smart manufacturing adoption accelerated, especially for automotive manufacturers
Smart manufacturing adoption grew by 64% for automotive manufacturers, which is greater than the survey average. Another 40% of automotive respondents expressed interest or are actively evaluating solutions for adoption with the majority looking to adopt in the next 1-2 years.
The pandemic exposed evolving business challenges
Smart manufacturing adoption grew by 64% for automotive manufacturers, which is greater than the survey average. Another 40% of automotive respondents expressed interest or are actively evaluating solutions for adoption with the majority looking to adopt in the next 1-2 years.
Once over-hyped technologies are solving today’s problems
Technologies that were once viewed as over-hyped and unlikely to contribute in a meaningful way are now deemed vital to success. Cloud, industrial hardened devices, and process automation are helping companies overcome challenges with the skilled worker shortage, supply chain management, and risk mitigation.
Additionally, 61% of automotive respondents are “very” or “extremely” interested in supply chain planning solutions with machine learning/AI.