Can AI solve some pressing issues in automotive manufacturing? This top Infosys executive answers

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the integration of AI into core processes to make manufacturing more sustainable. This shift not only enhances production efficiency but also aligns with the increasing demand for eco-friendly mobility solutions. 

Optimising energy usage and reducing waste

AI algorithms can process large amounts and varied types of data from different stages of the production process to detect inefficiencies and recommend enhancements. AI can predict equipment maintenance needs, thus reducing downtime and energy wastage. Furthermore, by adjusting energy consumption in real time, AI-driven systems enable efficient and sustainable use of resources.

AI is also contributing significantly to waste reduction. Using predictive analytics, manufacturers can forecast demand more accurately, thereby minimising overproduction and excess inventory. Computer vision systems can detect quality issues early in the production process, thus reducing material waste and saving energy that would otherwise have gone into producing defective parts. These systems can identify subtle defects in components or assembly issues that might otherwise go unnoticed until later stages of production, when corrections would be more resource intensive.

Generative design software allows manufacturers to create durable and sustainable automotive parts by generating numerous design variations based on specific parameters. This not only improves the quality of components but also reduces material wastage during production.

Enhancing supply chain efficiency

AI's role in supply chain management is transformative, offering unprecedented levels of efficiency and transparency. By analysing data from suppliers, production lines, and distribution networks, AI can optimise logistics and inventory management. This reduces transportation emissions and lowers the carbon footprint.

Digital Twins can track and analyse the carbon footprint of different supply chain configurations, enabling manufacturers to choose routes and transportation methods that minimise environmental impact. AI algorithms can also evaluate suppliers based on their environmental practices, helping manufacturers make more sustainable sourcing decisions.

AI is a catalyst for implementing circular economy practices throughout the automotive sector, enabling manufacturers to reimagine resource usage and product lifecycles. It can track the lifecycle of materials and components, thereby helping manufacturers design products that can be easily recycled or reused. This is especially true in the case of electric vehicles (EVs), where sustainable manufacturing requires balancing material extraction, production energy, and end-of-life recycling.

Advancing electric vehicles and autonomous driving

AI is playing a pivotal role in the development of EVs and autonomous driving technologies, both of which are essential for the future of sustainable mobility. AI-powered simulations accelerate battery design and help in optimising energy density and extending the battery lifespan. Additionally, advanced algorithms improve charging infrastructure management, dynamically allocating resources to reduce energy grid strain and enhance accessibility for EV users.

AI systems are also essential in developing more efficient electric powertrains. Using advanced modelling and simulation, manufacturers can optimise motor design and control systems, leading to increased range and performance. These improvements will make EVs more attractive to consumers, accelerating the transition from fossil fuel-dependent transportation.

Enabling smart mobility systems 

Smart mobility transcends single-vehicle innovations, transforming how entire transportation networks operate and interconnect. AI is at the heart of these systems, enabling seamless integration and coordination of various modes of transport. For example, AI can optimise traffic flow and reduce congestion and emissions in cities by analysing data from connected vehicles, IoT sensors and infrastructure.

AI-powered mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platforms are transforming how people access transportation. By offering on-demand, shared, and multimodal transport options, these platforms reduce the need for private car ownership and promote more sustainable travel behaviours. AI algorithms can personalise travel recommendations based on user preferences and real-time conditions, enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability of urban mobility.

The future

While the potential of AI in sustainable automotive manufacturing is immense, several challenges remain. Integration of AI systems requires strategic investments in infrastructure and training. Data security and privacy concerns must be addressed, particularly as manufacturing becomes more connected and digitalised.

However, the opportunities far outweigh the challenges. As AI technology continues to evolve, with powerful models that run on the edge, powerful AI hardware and platforms, we can expect even more innovative mobility solutions.

Jasmeet Singh is executive vice president and global head of manufacturing at Infosys.