Rockwell Automation and the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) have published a white paper on AI and automation in automotive, tyre and battery manufacturing. Measured outcomes, including up to 50% reductions in unplanned downtime in select applications, sit alongside a broader finding that uneven adoption is creating a competitiveness gap across the supply chain.

Rockwell Automation’s data also shows approximately 5% improvements in overall equipment effectiveness and 5% to 7% throughput gains from real-time production analytics. Automation is extending into areas previously resistant to mechanisation, including electronics assembly, validation and logistics, supported by AI and machine learning in predictive maintenance and inspection.

In a statement, Edgar Faler, Principal Mobility Analyst and Strategy Lead at CAR, said: “The industry has built a strong automation foundation. What is changing now is how manufacturers are using AI and data to manage growing complexity, improve decision-making, and create competitive advantage. Those that move faster are starting to see measurable advantages.”

James Glasson, Vice President, Global Industry—Automotive, Tyre and Advanced Mobility at Rockwell Automation, added: “Manufacturers are being asked to do more with less while managing greater complexity. The combination of automation and AI is helping teams identify issues earlier, reduce downtime and improve performance across plants. The difference now is how effectively companies scale these capabilities.”

Source: Rockwell Automation