Automotive Engineering - March 2021

Overview

The March 2021 issue of Automotive Engineering features a range of topics centered around the automotive industry's current challenges and innovations, particularly in the context of electrification and supply chain issues.

Cover Story: Ford's Electrification Strategy and Supply Chain Challenges

The issue opens with a cover story featuring an interview with Hau Thai-Tang, Ford Motor Company's Chief Product Platform and Operations Officer. The interview takes place at Ford's Dearborn Proving Ground, where strict health protocols are in place due to the ongoing pandemic. Thai-Tang discusses Ford's electrification strategy, highlighted by the Mustang Mach-E, and addresses the significant microchip shortage affecting the automotive industry. He describes this shortage as a structural issue, stemming from a fundamental imbalance between supply and demand across various industries. The problem is particularly acute in the supply chain, where constraints are felt at multiple levels, impacting production and delivery timelines.

Historical Context: GM's EV-1 Legacy

The editorial section reflects on the legacy of General Motors' EV-1, a pioneering electric vehicle that was both innovative and controversial. This retrospective highlights the challenges and triumphs of early electric vehicle development, setting the stage for the current resurgence of interest in electric mobility. The EV-1 serves as a reminder of the long-standing complexities in the automotive industry's transition to electric vehicles.

Industry Insights and Innovations

The magazine also includes insights into various technological advancements and testing methodologies that are shaping the future of automotive engineering. One notable feature is the focus on the role of sensors in electric and autonomous vehicles. MTS Sensors, a division of MTS Systems Corporation, is highlighted for its contributions to durability testing, noise measurement, and the reliability of safety-related systems. These technologies are crucial for ensuring that electric vehicles meet the rigorous standards required for performance and safety.

Challenges in the Supply Chain

The issue delves deeper into the supply chain challenges faced by automakers, particularly the ongoing microchip shortage. This shortage has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted manufacturing and logistics worldwide. Thai-Tang emphasizes the need for a more resilient supply chain that can adapt to such disruptions in the future. The article discusses potential strategies for mitigating these challenges, including diversifying suppliers and investing in domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Future of Electric Vehicles

As the automotive industry pivots towards electrification, the magazine explores the future of electric vehicles, including advancements in rapid charging technology. The need for efficient charging solutions is critical for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, and various companies are working on innovative approaches to enhance charging speed and convenience. The issue highlights the importance of infrastructure development in supporting the growth of electric mobility.

Conclusion

In summary, the March 2021 issue of Automotive Engineering provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the automotive industry, focusing on electrification, supply chain challenges, and technological innovations. Through interviews, historical reflections, and industry insights, the magazine captures the complexities and opportunities that lie ahead for automakers as they navigate a rapidly changing landscape. The emphasis on resilience in supply chains and the push for advanced electric vehicle technologies underscores the industry's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the face of ongoing challenges.