Automotive Engineering - February 2017

Overview

The February 2017 issue of Automotive Engineering presents a comprehensive overview of current trends and challenges in the automotive industry, focusing on technological advancements, regulatory changes, and the evolving landscape of vehicle design and manufacturing.

Key Highlights:

1. Complexity and Reliability in Vehicle Design: The issue opens with a discussion on the increasing complexity of vehicle designs and its correlation with higher failure rates. An article by Mike Jobe emphasizes that vehicles manufactured between 1940 and 1970 had the lowest failure rates, suggesting that modern designs often compromise reliability for complexity. Jobe advocates for a focus on simpler, more reliable designs, improved quality control, and the use of advanced materials to enhance vehicle performance and reduce ownership costs.

2. Emerging Technologies: The magazine features insights into the growing need for processing power in vehicle electrical architectures. Ray Knight highlights the automotive industry's shift towards more sophisticated electronic systems, similar to trends observed in aerospace. This shift is driven by the dominance of a few top-tier suppliers in the technology space, raising concerns that automakers may become mere assemblers in the future.

3. Regulatory Landscape: The issue also addresses the regulatory challenges facing the automotive industry, particularly in light of the new U.S. administration's approach to environmental regulations. Bob Lutz comments on the potential for contentious debates as the government seeks to navigate the complex regulatory framework that has developed over the years. This discussion underscores the importance of a unified standard in the industry to streamline compliance and innovation.

4. Upcoming Publications and Events: The magazine outlines a schedule of upcoming technology newsletters and print issues, including special editions focused on connected cars, autonomous vehicles, and vehicle electrification. These publications aim to keep industry professionals informed about the latest developments and trends in automotive engineering.

5. Company Advertisements and Resources: The issue includes an advertisement index featuring various companies involved in automotive engineering, such as CD-adapco, MathWorks, and COMSOL, among others. These companies provide tools and resources that support engineers in their design and analysis efforts. The magazine also offers contact information for regional representatives and subscription details, ensuring that readers can easily access additional resources and support.

6. Editorial Insights: The editorial section poses a thought-provoking question regarding the future of automotive engineering, inviting readers to reflect on the balance between innovation and reliability. The editors encourage feedback from readers, fostering a sense of community and engagement within the industry.

Conclusion:

The February 2017 issue of Automotive Engineering serves as a vital resource for professionals in the automotive sector, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements and regulatory changes. By focusing on reliability, simplicity, and the integration of new technologies, the industry can navigate the complexities of modern vehicle design and manufacturing. The magazine not only highlights current trends but also sets the stage for future discussions and developments in automotive engineering.