The impact that technologies are having on the automotive industry is unprecedented. From energy efficiency to driver safety and comfort, technology has radically changed the way cars are designed, built and used.
The main protagonist of this transformation is artificial intelligence, a tool whose astonishing ability to process data, recognize patterns, learn, reason and make decisions, delivers excellent results and unique potential to the world's leading automotive companies. As reported by Markets&Markets, the artificial intelligence market in the automotive sector in 2027 will be $7 billion, with an annual growth rate of 24.1%.
But AI is not alone in this amazing technological evolution: other tools such as machine learning, predictive data analytics, robotics, the Internet of Things and blockchain are being increasingly used in the industry.
Automotive Industry 4.0
The automotive industry is at the forefront of innovation. New technologies are redefining mobility as we understand it, offering consumers a safer, more efficient and more enjoyable driving experience.
The transition to electric vehicles is one of the most significant changes the automotive industry is going through. Powered by artificial intelligence and other technologies such as blockchain, the Internet of Things and big data, electric cars represent an excellent alternative for reducing polluting emissions and mitigating environmental impact. To achieve this, car manufacturers have had to create new production lines, specialised manufacturing processes and greater integration of advanced technologies. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the electric car sector is one of the fastest growing worldwide. China leads all the rankings: in 2023 it reached $1.2 billion in exports of electric vehicles, representing 24% of the country's total exports.
Self-driving vehicles are another rapidly developing field. They combine precision engineering with technological innovation, and are equipped with sensors, cameras and radars that allow them to perceive their environment. They also use advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze data in real time and make intelligent decisions about navigation and vehicle control. Autonomous driving promises to revolutionize the way we travel, offering greater safety, efficiency and comfort for drivers and passengers.
Technology is also producing major changes in vehicle connectivity. New models have Internet connectivity, mobile device integration, voice assistants and over-the-air (OTA) updates, innovations that are transforming the driving experience and paving the way for a smarter, more connected mobility future.
Likewise, to improve safety and the driving experience, car manufacturers are developing new driver assistance systems to detect hazards and assist with maneuvers, such as automatic braking, lane keeping, blind spot monitoring and parking assistance. The aim of these systems is to increase safety, alert the driver and, in some cases, temporarily take control of the vehicle.
Technological Solutions
To carry out this ambitious technological development, the automotive industry relies on a wide range of enterprise solutions available on the market to optimize processes, from production planning to supply chain management and after-sales service.
One of the most robust options is offered by SAP with SAP S/4HANA Cloud, public edition, a ready-to-operate cloud-based ERP that provides the latest industry best practices and continuous innovation. It is a platform that offers organizations a complete suite of integrated business applications, designed to meet the needs of companies of all sizes and industries.
Another widely used product by companies is SAP Integrated Business Planning for Supply Chain, which offers connected processes and fast, flexible planning to deal with supply chain disruptions.
A bet on the future
The road to the future of mobility is not without challenges. One of the main challenges facing the automotive industry is the need for adequate infrastructure to support the mass adoption of technologies. This includes the implementation of charging stations for electric vehicles, as well as the improvement of communication networks to enable reliable and high-speed connectivity on the roads.
In addition, car manufacturers face regulatory and ethical complexities as they move towards a technology-driven future. Government regulations around safety, data privacy and legal liability for autonomous vehicles are constantly evolving areas that require careful attention and a commitment to regulatory compliance.
Companies that successfully address these obstacles will be positioned to gain a significant competitive advantage in the race to dominate the future of mobility. Those who invest in research and development, collaborate with strategic partners, and commit to ethical and sustainable business practices, will be better equipped to lead the next era of innovation in the automotive industry.
About United VARs
United VARs is a global alliance of SAP implementation partners and solution providers for the mid-market. With over 70 members in 100 countries, the alliance serves all types of SAP rollouts and integrations across the world. The organization provides businesses with local expertise ‘on the ground’ charged at local rates. All United VARs members work together as one team to provide a more personalized service than other global systems integrators can, and one that is better suited to mid-market budgets.
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