Tag: track-and-trace

This site is showing all Articles related to this Tag: track-and-trace

Scania signs three-year deal with Unipart to manage service parts centre in Kunshan, China

Unipart is managing logistics operations at Scania’s new Chinese service parts distribution centre in Kunhan, China as the truckmaker grows operations across the country.

Marcus Williams

Automotive Inbound Logistics Survey 2025

The Automotive Inbound Logistics Survey 2025, in partnership with DP World, explores automotive inbound logistics, diving deep into the pertinent issues around tariffs, costs, digitalisation, and investment. Join the survey, win a prize, and gain access to vital insights on the challenges, constraints, and opportunities the sector faces.Take the survey

Renault embeds circular economy principles in packaging to cut emissions and logistics costs across its global supply chain

Renault is actively embedding circular economy principles into its industrial packaging strategy, aiming to reduce waste, optimise logistics and extend the lifespan of packaging assets across its global operations.

Megan Kelly

Plus

European Automotive Logistics Market Report 2025-2035

Download this comprehensive report with succinct industry analysis, market forecasts, company market share evaluations, and strategic recommendations

Daniel Harrison

GM’s strategy to tackle EV logistics challenges: Digitalisation, nearshoring, and improving supplier relations

Strengthening supplier relationships, nearshoring strategies and digitalisation are enabling GM to enhance supply chain resilience across North America. From securing critical EV components to optimising cross-border logistics, the carmaker is fostering innovation and operational efficiency amid growing challenges.

Megan Kelly

Recap blog: Insights from Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies Europe 2024

Leaders from BMW, VW, Audi, and more gathered at ALSC Digital Strategies Europe 2024 in Munich, where experts discussed digital solutions for sustainable, resilient and co-creative supply chains. Follow our recap blog below for all the insights, including news, features and Red Sofa video interviews.

Red Sofa Interview | Kia México’s multidimensional approach to logistics, customs and purchasing

Ricardo Ortega Márquez, senior manager for purchasing, customs and logistics at Kia México takes to the Red Sofa at ALSC Mexico 2024 to discuss the innovative strategies driving the OEM’s success.

Typhoon Kong-rey’s disruption on automotive logistics highlights the need for predictive tools

Typhoon Kong-rey made landfall in Taiwan at the end of October before impacting the Philippines, East China, South Korea and Japan, disrupting ports in the region.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa | Rubén Ballesteros on how MG Mexico drives growth with innovative logistics strategies

MG México has been expanding and building out its supply chain by tailoring it to the Mexican market. In a Red Sofa interview at Automotive Logsitics & Supply Chain Mexico 2024, its head of logistics, Rubén Ballesteros, spoke to Automotive Logistics’ chief content officer about the company’s ability to make flexible decisions faster and its future plans in the country.

The results are in! Download the Automotive Logistics Systems & Software Survey 2024 Report now

Automotive Logistics Systems and Software Survey 2024 PDF | 0.96 Mb The results of Automotive Logistics’ survey of its global experts from OEMs, tier suppliers and logistics providers show key challenges in interoperability, visibility and the push toward industry-wide digital solutions. For a preview of the key takeaways, read our article on some of the trends here . For full access to all the findings, including trends broken down by company type, region, types of software and more, downloa…

Daniel Harrison

A more sustainable service with Suardiaz Group

This content was produced by Automotive Logistics in partnership with Suardiaz GroupCustomised integral logistics provider Suardiaz is making its inbound and finished vehicle logistics services more sustainable through a combination of new truck and vessel technology, optimised route planning, including mixed short-sea loads, and the adoption of alternative fuels.

Automotive Logistics

Better visibility supported by digital technology makes for a more resilient supply chain at Brose Group

Uncloaking blind spots in the automotive supply chain requires a continuous and collaborative strategy aimed at greater scrutiny of inventory management, transport and manufacturing processes, supported by the latest digital tools, according to Agnieszka Kubiak, senior vice-president logistics at Brose Group.

Megan Kelly

Marcus Williams

ALSC Mexico 2024 recap blog: Discussing nearshoring, digital transformation and cross-border strategies

The tenth Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico conference has wrapped up, after industry leaders, logistics experts and automotive pioneers gathered to discuss the latest trends, challenges and innovations transforming Mexico’s automotive supply chain. That transformation comes at an uncertain time for the North American supply chain, with shifting global dynamics and a pivotal US election.

Addressing transport capacity shortfalls in North America with collaboration and investment

Moving finished vehicles in North America has been made difficult by a shortage of transport capacity, but speakers at this year’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Global conference revealed the benefits ahead through investment in transport assets, a better multimodal strategy and stronger contracts between OEMs and logistics providers.

Marcus Williams

How GM is boosting resiliency through predictive AI tools

On day two of ALSC Global 2024 David Leich, executive director, Global Supply Chain at GM took to the stage to discuss the roadmap for connected and predictive supply chains.

Megan Kelly

The latest insights from Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Global 2024

Hello everyone and welcome to the Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Global 2024 recap blog, from our event which took place on 24-26th September at the Henry Hotel in Dearborn, Michigan. Stay tuned to get the latest updates and insights on our conference speakers and the sessions here!

Megan Kelly

Emily Uwemedimo

Marcus Williams

DP World’s strategic vision for finished vehicle logistics

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Logistics in partnership with DP WorldPutting cars in containers has proven to be a valuable alternative to capacity-strapped ro-ro and multilevel rail transport and it is just one way that DP World is enhancing service capabilities for its automotive customers, writes Christoph Seitz, global vice-president of finished vehicles.

Automotive Logistics

Maersk: Container volume to rise, Red Sea disruption continues

Shipping company AP Møller-Maersk has raised its outlook for the global container market volume growth for the full year, despite supply chain disruption caused by the situation in the Red Sea which is now expected to continue at least until the end of the year.

Megan Kelly

Global IT outage affects ports in US, Europe and Africa

The global IT outage that hit industries across the world today has affected ports and airports across the US, Europe, Africa and more, causing problems for the automotive supply chain globally.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa Interview | Nissan’s Gerardo de la Torre on cyber security and digital action plans for automotive supply chains

At the inaugural ALSC Digital Strategies North America, keynote speaker Gerardo de la Torre took to the Red Sofa to talk about Nissan’s digitalisation strategy and its next steps.

Gerardo de la Torre: Digital shift ‘absolutely necessary’ for Nissan’s supply chain

Nissan Group of North America has been restructuring to prioritise integrated digitalisation across its business units, to improve visibility and data analytics while remaining compliant and cyber-secure.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa Interview | Logen Lytle, Honda on organisational change to enable supply chain digitalisation

At the inaugural ALSC Digital Strategies North America, Logen Lytle, Operations Technology lead at Honda took to the Red Sofa to talk about organisational change and restructuring business units to enable and enhance digitalisation in the automotive supply chain.

Red Sofa Interview | Bosch’s Chandan Trehan on the need for open, digital, agile mindsets

At the inaugural ALSC Digital Strategies North America, Trehan took to the Red Sofa to discuss the importance of openness, trust and agility in the workforce during the digital transformation of the supply chain.

Red Sofa Interview | Vinturas’ Ronald Kleijwegt on interoperability and private blockchain in automotive logistics

At the inaugural ALSC Digital Strategies North America, Kleijwegt took to the Red Sofa to discuss the importance of interoperability in the digitalisation of the supply chain, and the barriers that can come into play.

Red Sofa Interview: Skotti Fietsam on calculating ROI of digitalisation for Accuride’s supply chain

At the inaugural ALSC Digital Strategies North America, the head of supply chain for tier one supplier of wheels for commercial vehicles, Accuride, took to the Red Sofa to discuss how to calculate hard and soft savings and return on investment for digital technologies.

Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America - Day two wrap-up

As Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America 2024 comes to a close, join us to take a look at all the inspiring content of the day. From discussions on supply chain transformation, to advancements in technology and what the automotive logistics sector of the future will look like.

Automotive Logistics Systems and Software Survey 2024

As the automotive industry faces rising complexity and uncertainty across the inbound supply chain and the delivery of finished vehicles, all stakeholders are keen to accelerate digitalisation and leverage the best systems and software in automotive logistics.

Automotive Logistics

ALSC Digital Strategies North America: Recap blog

Follow our recap blog below for key highlights and knowledge shared at Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America 2024, which focused on digitalising North America’s end-to-end automotive supply chain. Following the event in Nashville on 26-27 June, we will continue sharing news and features that relate to the speakers and companies involved in the event. Keep following the blog, as we will share videos straight from the main stage and the Red Sofa at the event!

Automotive Logistics

Red Sofa Interview: VW’s Anu Goel on thinking regionally in FVL

Anu Goel, executive vice-president, Group After Sales & Service, Volkswagen Group speaks to Christopher Ludwig, chief content officer, Automotive Logistics about bringing together North America’s US, Canada and Mexico vehicle logistics divisions under a Virtual Task Force to explore more opportunities that are beneficial for the region as a whole.

Volkswagen Group’s North America vehicle logistics approach saves cost and delivery time

In the last year, Volkswagen Group of America’s finished vehicle logistics teams have united their US, Mexico and Canada divisions, under the umbrella of Anu Goel’s leadership and ’Virtual Task Force’. Now, Goel and the team are seeing results, not only in efficiency and capacity, but in millions of dollars’ worth of working capital and transport savings.

Megan Kelly

Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America - Day one wrap-up

As Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America 2024 kicks off for the first time ever, join us to take a look at all the inspiring content of the day. From discussions on organisational and supply chain transformation, to risk-sensing and increasing visibility through digital tools.

Closing the digital divide at Ford

Becca Adam, Ford’s product line manager for material and vehicle logistics IT, talks about the implementation of digital twin concepts for inbound material flow, integration of real-time location services into transport and yard management, and the focus on data management in logistics.

Marcus Williams

Ford is increasing telematic data sharing in vehicle logistics

In one of the four Ideas Labs held at this year’s Finished Vehicle Logistics North America conference in California, Ford’s Alex McMall joined FreightVerify’s Nathan Lawson to discuss the benefits of telematics for transparent vehicle logistics

Marcus Williams

Forvia’s supply chain built on technology and trust

Tier one parts supplier Forvia is using the latest digital technology to manage its supply chain and mitigate disruption, while maintaining close communication with its logistics providers, says Ricardo Manzanera, transport director for Americas purchasing logistics

Marcus Williams

How to democratise data and enable transparency in FVL

Sharing data and knowledge in finished vehicle logistics, and across the wider automotive logistics sector, will be beneficial for OEMs and tier suppliers alike – but despite this, there is still a reluctance to break the industry norms and trust other parties with data and information. At this year’s Finished Vehicle Logistics North America conference, leaders from Ford, Subaru, VW and more spoke about why it’s necessary to break the status quo and democratise data to see effective results.

Megan Kelly

Wallenius Wilhelmsen sells Melbourne ro-ro terminal

Wallenius Wilhelmsen (WW) has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Melbourne International Roro & Auto Teminal (Mirrat) to a subsidy of Qube Holdings, Australia’s largest logistics provider.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa Interview: BMW’s progress in US-Mexico network strategy

Raúl Gamboa, head of Logistics, Production Control and Production Systems at BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosí speaks to Richard Logan, senior content producer, Automotive Logistics about the progress and challenges facing the carmaker in the finished vehicle sector.

Private equity and logistics firms eye up DB Schenker

Deutsche Bahn has received several confirmed bids for its logistics division DB Schenker, according to the parent company.

Megan Kelly

FVL North America 2024 Cocktail Reception wrap-up

Join us inside the Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2024 Cocktail Reception as we get revved up for the hottest topics in automotive logistics. Centred on discussions of disrupting the status quo of FVL in the region, we will hear about the innovation in supply chain management and transportation solutions, flexibility and the importance of partnerships and sustainability.

Red Sofa interview: Nissan’s Steve Jernigan on network improvements in Mexico

At this week’s Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2024 conference in California, Steve Jernigan, senior director of supply chain management for Nissan North America, took to the Red Sofa to tell Richard Logan, senior content producer, Automotive Logistics about improvements to domestic haulaway performance in Mexico, which includes better equipment utilisation and availability.

Finished Vehicle Logistics North America: Recap blog

Follow our recap blog below for key highlights and knowledge shared at Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2024. We will be sharing news and videos straight from the main stage and the Red Sofa, including insight, data and quotes from the automotive experts who discussed how they are disrupting the status quo, and raising performance through innovation, flexibility and partnerships.

Automotive Logistics

Canada rail faces strike action

The Teamsters Canada union, which represents 9,000 workers at Canada’s two biggest railroads, has threatened strike action that would disrupt North America’s supply chains from as early as May 22.

Megan Kelly

On the right track for rail investment

Class 1 rail providers are responding to demands on capacity by working collaboratively and investing in technology and infrastructure for a more sustainable vehicle deliver network in North America, writes Marcus Williams

Marcus Williams

Future-proofing the finished vehicle trucking fleet in North America

Road transport providers in North America have been working with OEMs on a range of initiatives to better utilise capacity as vehicle output continues to recover despite bottlenecks and capacity shortages. Key FVL trucking providers speak to Megan Kelly about how they are mitigating disruption, enhancing services and navigating congestion affecting other modes.

Megan Kelly

Competition takes repair services to the next level

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with DRS GroupThe automotive repair industry has been stagnant for some time, and more competition is needed to drive innovation, cut customer costs and improve services. World Record Holder in hail damage repair, DRS Group, wants to change that.

Automotive Logistics

Tensions in Middle East trigger war risk premiums in freight rates

As tensions escalate in the Middle East, Iran has captured a container ship linked to Israel, leading to heightened volatility in shipping markets. Container trading firm Container xChange is predicting a rise in war risk premiums.

Megan Kelly

US Coast Guard opens alternate channel at Baltimore bridge site

The US Coast Guard has opened an alternate channel for vessels at the site of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore port.

Megan Kelly

Blue Yonder refines supply chain visibility with One Network Enterprise takeover

Blue Yonder has signed an agreement to acquire One Network Enterprise for $839m, the latest acquisition in the supply chain software provider’s efforts to provide an end-to-end supply chain platform and collaboration tool.

Marcus Williams

Acertus adds Guardian Auto Transport to acquisitions

Finished vehicle services provider Acertus has bought Guardian Auto Transport, its sixth acquisition since 2017. Guardian Auto Transport provides a platform for vehicle shipments to dealers and end customers, including for classic cars.

Marcus Williams

Baltimore FVL vessels re-route to New York, Norfolk and Philadelphia

Vessels that had been bound for Baltimore port have started to re-route after the cargo vessel Deli collapsed the Francis Scott Key Baltimore bridge in Maryland.

Megan Kelly

Rebuilding resilience and stability for a more sustainable supply chain

The multiple crises the automotive industry has experienced over the last four years have been a driver for innovation for inbound and outbound logistics processes, according to speakers at this year’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Europe conference in Bonn, Germany.

Marcus Williams

BMW navigates the new ‘never normal’ in logistics

Emerging from four years of geopolitical and market volatility, many OEMs and logistics companies have had to adapt or die. BMW has transformed by installing several strategies, including its Programme Commission which brings production, finance, sales, and purchasing, and supply chain and logistics under one umbrella.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa Interview: Why Toyota Motor Europe isn’t looking for flexibility

Jean Christophe Deville, vice-president of supply chain at Toyota Motor Europe said he isn’t looking for flexibility in his logistics partners, and is instead looking for forecasting capabilities.

Red Sofa Interview: Jean-Marc Carlicchi on Renault’s next step in digitalisation

At ALSC Europe in Bonn, Germany last week, Jean-Marc Carlicchi, VP of Supply Chain Engineering at Renault Group took to the Red Sofa with Christopher Ludwig, Chief of Content, to talk about the OEM’s digitalisation journey.

Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Europe: Recap blog

Follow our recap blog below for the key highlights and knowledge shared at ALSC Europe 2024. Even though the event is over, the insight doesn’t stop, and we will continue to update this blog with the most valuable insights, data and quotes from automotive experts discussing how to deliver a competitive edge, through reducing complexity, increasing flexibility and maximising capacity. Jump to key highlights:Dr Michael Nikolaides, BMW on market volatilityMartina Graser, Ford Europe on securing ocean-based capacityIza Kalinska, JLR, Sabine Isenbort, Ford Europe and Sonia Santos, Bosch on the Red SofaLevent Yuksel, JLR Red Sofa Interview and article on ‘win win’ opportunities for collaborationJean-Marc Carlicchi, Renault Group on the ‘new never-normal’Jean Christophe Deville, Toyota Motor Europe Red Sofa Interview and article on advantageous partnershipsOliver Bronder, VW Group Logistics keynote panel

Automotive Logistics

The quest for one source of truth in Volkswagen Group’s digital supply chain

Group Logistics is accelerating digitalisation, from cloud-based systems to vehicle logistics, with the aim of improving data quality and better leveraging visibility, insights and AI applications.

Christopher Ludwig

Stellantis plans to take more control of outbound logistics

Stellantis is looking to take more control of its outbound finished vehicle logistics through buying more freight assets.

Megan Kelly

GM, Tesla, BYD, Toyota & VW at risk of forced labour in Chinese aluminium supply chains

Global carmakers including GM, Tesla, BYD, Toyota and Volkswagen are failing to minimise the risk of Uyghur forced labour being used in aluminium sourcing.

Megan Kelly

Auto1 Group rolls out Inform optimisation tools across European network

Used car trading platform Auto1 Group has expanded its agreement with Inform and is rolling out the logistics software specialist’s yard management and workshop optimisation systems across ten refurbishment locations in Europe.

Marcus Williams

Gestamp redefines supply chain management for industry 4.0

Under the guidance of Diego Mallada, chief information officer for digitalisation, Gestamp is emerging as a leader in integrating digital networks and AI across its supply chain. Gestamp, an expert in metal automotive components and body-in-white, is revolutionising automotive supply chain management through advanced industry 4.0 strategies, emphasising federated networks and superior data quality.

Ilkhan Ozsevim

Watch: How Gestamp is connecting the automotive supply chain through global federated networks and data standardisation

Gestamp is undergoing a significant digital transformation. As Diego Mallada explains to Christoper Ludwig, it is using a federated network and commitment to data excellence to redefine connectivity while driving collaboration and efficiency across global supply chains. Watch this video to learn more vision, strategy and technology behind Gestamp’s leap into the future of automotive logistics.

Red Sofa Interview: VW logistics using rail and digital twins to boost sustainable operations in US and Mexico

Christoph Hartmann, head of Transport Networks, VW Group Logistics is using digital twins to help improve inbound logistics, and is adapting lessons learned in Europe to boost digitalisation and sustainability.

UK outlines strategy to protect supply of critical materials

The UK government’s Department for Business and Trade has launched a Critical Imports and Supply Chains Strategy to safeguard the supply of goods including minerals and semiconductors, seen as essential for the future of the country’s domestic automotive industry. It also includes measures to protect other manufacturing sectors as well as pharmaceutical supplies.

Marcus Williams

Red Sea blog: Live updates

Houthi attacks on vessels passing through the Red Sea are increasing, causing container ship and ro-ro operators to reroute vessels to avoid danger. Follow Automotive Logistics’ live blog below for the latest updates.

Megan Kelly

ECG publishes guidance for reporting supply chain emissions

The Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG), along with the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) and a group of OEMs, has published the first methodology to calculate and report on automotive supply chain emissions.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa Interview: BMW’s creativity is helping solve its supply chain problems in Mexico

Raúl Gamboa, director of material and transport control, BMW Group Plant San Luis Potosi talks to Richard Logan, senior content producer, Automotive Logistics about BMW’s creative innovations to mitigate supply chain problems in Mexico.

Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico: Recap blog

Follow our recap blog below to get the most important insights from Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico 2023.

Megan Kelly

Renault Group partners with École des Ponts ParisTech for AI and supply chain digitalisation

Renault Group’s supply chain division has partnered with École des Ponts ParisTech, school of science, engineering and technology, to explore the future of AI optimisation in the supply chain.

Megan Kelly

UAW workers ratify deals with GM, Ford and Stellantis

Members of the United Auto Workers union (UAW) have ratified the tentative deals with GM, Ford and Stellantis following weeks of strikes against the Detroit Big Three, but an expert warned the damage may already be done for some suppliers.

Megan Kelly

The automotive supply chain is preparing for the next generation of AI

While the use of artificial intelligence (AI) has only become a reality in the automotive supply chain in recent years, the next generation of the technology, generative AI, is being tested and put to use by technology supplier ZF Friedrichshafen.

Megan Kelly

ALSC Digital Strategies 2023 - Wrap-up day two

The automotive supply chain remains under pressure while the industry is electrifying and seeing new components and materials coming into play. At day two of the inaugural Automotive Logisitcs & Supply Chain conference in Munich, we heard from even more expert speakers to find out how new data possibilities and technologies can be leveraged to the industry’s advantage.

Core connections for quality output at JLR

JLR is one carmaker that has been working hard over the last few years to transform manufacturing and supply chain operations up to an Industry 4.0 standard of efficiency and connectivity.

Marcus Williams

ALSC Digital Strategies 2023 - Wrap-up day one

The automotive supply chain remains under pressure while the industry is electrifying and seeing new components and materials coming into play. At day one of the inaugural Automotive Logisitcs & Supply Chain conference in Munich, find out how new data possibilities and technologies can be leveraged to the industry’s advantage.

Red Sofa Interview: JLR’s Paulina Chmielarz on how data strategy supports a reimagined supply chain

In her new role as director of Digital & Innovation at JLR, Paulina Chmielarz has been aligning internal divisions to set a strong foundation for her bigger visions. As part of JLR’s ‘Reimagine’ strategy, she talks about aligning digital and data strategies will be essential in the transition to electric and software-defined vehicles.

Red Sofa Interview: Seat’s Alexandre Lerma on control tower creation for automated, robust and flexible supply chains

From automation-driven advancements to the reformation of operational frameworks, Lerma envisions a future shaped by cross-functional teams impacting both pre-production and commercial activities. Yet, the primary challenge lies in rallying more suppliers to collaborate within this innovative framework.In Lerma’s vision, collaboration, fueled by data alignment and pioneering functionalities, will be the cornerstone of Seat SA’s quest for a robust, adaptable, and interconnected automotive ecosystem.

Red Sofa Interview: Volkswagen’s Frank Göller on Catena-X and supercharging automotive supply chains

At the recent Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Digital Strategies conference in Germany, Frank Göller, head of digital production and processes, Volkswagen Group, and vice-president of internationalisation at Catena-X, said the data-sharing platform is built on strong automotive players who shared the same ideas and agenda, including collaboration and data security. But what does that mean for automotive supply chains and logistics? Watch to find out more…

Red Sofa Interview: Autoliv’s Dr Gisela Linge on the human-centric engine driving digitalisation

Dr Gisela Linge, supply chain vice president at Autoliv says the key to embedding digitalisation is to “first embed this in our way of working and thinking,” making digitalisation human-centric and having the problems of key users in mind.

Red Sofa Interview: Dr Birgit Boss talks about Bosch’s adoption of digital twins and semantic models

Dr Birgit Boss, senior expert for digital twins and standardisation at Bosch, explains why data is now more important than ever in building more interoperability into the automotive supply chain.

Red Sofa Interview: Infineon’s Birgit Fuchs on the digital tools being used for semiconductor capacity planning

Infineon’s vice-president of supply chain automotive, Dr Birgit Fuchs, talks about the role digital technology is playing to help Infineon manage semiconductor supply and mitigate the sort of inbound disruption the automotive industry has seen in recent years.

Red Sofa Interview: how BMW is digitalising supply chains for greater speed, standards and traceability

Michael Ströbel, who leads BMW Group’s global digital production and logistics processes, joins the Red Sofa to discuss what its cloud integration means for logistics and expanding data reference points, and points traceability requirements upstream and downstream whilst looking to new uses cases for generative AI.

BMW’s digital strategy for better supply chain visibility

What the disruption caused by the Covid pandemic and subsequent repercussions such as the semiconductor crisis have revealed is that the automotive industry needs a clearer line of sight up and down the supply chain to secure flexible production and the timely delivery of vehicles.

Marcus Williams

Acertus shines a light into outbound supply chain with latest TMS

Acertus has launched a new transport management system (TMS) that providers shippers with real-time GPS tracking, digital inspection data, automated reporting and custom data visualisation.

Marcus Williams

Apollo turns to digital freight management to gain supply chain visibility

Digitalisation has the power to provide greater visibility and control across complex automotive supply chains and make inbound and outbound logistics more efficient. That is what Apollo Tyres has discovered with the adoption of new digital freight technology tools

Ilkhan Ozsevim

Panama Canal disruptions set to continue into 2024, but container shipping less affected

The drought that is impacting shipping logistics on the Panama Canal is set to continue for the rest of the year and into early 2024, according to meteorologists and logistics experts, but container shipping is less likely to be affected than other shipping modes.

Megan Kelly

ALSC Global 2023 On Demand: Day two wrap-up from the Henry Ford Museum

Christopher Ludwig, Editor-in-Chief, Automotive Logistics gives us the rundown of day two at Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Global 2023, from the Ryder Gala Dinner at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan.

Renault, Volvo Group and CMA CGM partner in JV for electric logistics vans

Renault and Volvo Group have partnered in a joint venture (JV) with logistics provider CMA CGM to produce electric vans designed specifically for logistics and rentals.

Megan Kelly

Insourcing and localising supply chains help BMW stay flexible

Insourcing and localising are two of the ways that BMW Spartanburg is staying flexible and lean while growing, according to Oliver Bilstein, vice-president of logistics and production control, BMW Manufacturing.

Megan Kelly

Gestamp joins Catena-X to push digital and decarbonisation strategies

Gestamp has joined the Catena-X data-sharing platform, which is designed to increase visibility in the supply chain and improve the flow of parts and materials.

Marcus Williams

Red Sofa Interview: Honda’s dynamic logistics routing in US a breakthrough in flexibility

Dan Pace, transportation unit leader at Honda in the US, sits on the Red Sofa to discuss how the OEM has made its inbound logistics routing more agile to actual demand, and improved part-level visibility.

Red Sofa Interview: Material control is BMW's next frontier for AI at Plant Spartanburg

Oliver Bilstein, who leads logistics for BMW’s manufacturing in the US, joins the Red Sofa to discuss how new technology and automation are increasing flexibility in production and supply chain and how logistics needs to adapt to ramp up EV and battery output.

STB chairman encourages carmakers to push for North American rail freight reform

Automotive shippers should push the Surface Transportation Board for reform in railroad freight in the US, according to its chairman, Martin Oberman.

Megan Kelly

Covid and semiconductor crises have ‘pushed logistics industry forward’

The pandemic and the semiconductor shortage have encouraged more visibility and transparency between OEMs and automotive tier suppliers, helping the industry not only to recover but to advance further, according to experts.

Megan Kelly

Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Global: Recap

Follow our recap blog below to get the most important insights from Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Global 2023 in Detroit.

Megan Kelly

Barriers to digitalisation are ‘failures of tech industry’

The barriers to further digitalisation in automotive logistics are “failures of the tech industry” rather than failures of the automotive sector, according to the chief product officer of intelligence firm Cognosos.

Megan Kelly

A logistics vision for our time

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was paid for by Agillence and produced in partnership with Automotive LogisticsDelivering increased cost-effectiveness and efficiency to carmakers including Toyota and Nissan, Agillence software and systems increasingly provide visibility right down to tier N supplier level, says Srini Paruchuri.

Automotive Logistics

Capacity constraints continue: finished vehicle logistics survey Q2 2023

Download this exclusive report to discover the latest challenges facing finished vehicle logistics. Based on an extensive survey of FVL users and providers so far in 2023, the results provide clear insight into the specific issues affecting the global vehicle logistics sector.

Daniel Harrison

ICL CEO steps down, firm acquired by Valsoft

FVL visibility platform ICL, Inc. has been acquired by Canadian software acquisition firm Valsoft.

Megan Kelly

Pre-empting and preventing shipping damage in FVL

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was paid for by AutoVentive and produced in partnership with Automotive LogisticsGreater importance has been placed on tracking software in recent years by OEMs and logistics firms, particularly with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), to help ship vehicles in an easier, more sustainable and more efficient way. Now, AutoVentive says logistics software can help OEMs identify and prevent damage in shipping – before it even happens.

Automotive Logistics

Paulina Chmielarz and Frank Ludwig promoted to push JLR’s digitalisation and supply chain operations

Paulina Chmielarz promoted to new role that will speed up JLR’s digital manufacturing and supply chain innovation; Frank Ludwig will lead integrated programme delivery.

Christopher Ludwig

Material mission impossible: digital control of BMW’s inbound logistics

BMW has enhanced material planning and control systems for its Spartanburg plant across JIS, JIT and global flows, in close collaboration with Munich and partners in North America.

Christopher Ludwig

‘Performing while transforming’ BMW's logistics in Spartanburg: Special series

In the first of our special focus on the logistics for the carmaker’s largest vehicle plant, VP of logistics Oliver Bilstein explains how BMW is investing in digitalisation, space and people to manage complexity, prepare for electrification and mitigate capacity shortages in the US.

Christopher Ludwig

Watch: Finished Vehicle Logistics 2023 Survey Results Livestream

Watch on-demand our September 13th livestream, where we analyse the results of the recent 2023 global finished vehicle logistics survey, brought to you in partnership by Automotive Logistics and Cognosos.

Watch: Balancing sustainability, resilience and profitability in the automotive supply chain

This livestream with Mercedes-Benz explores how supply chain stakeholders can use machine learning to develop a more resilient, sustainable logistics network.

How vehicle tracking tech can add visibility to outbound logistics

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was paid for by Cognosos and produced in partnership with Automotive LogisticsEvery company in the automotive logistics sector has a goal to cut the time and effort it takes to get vehicles through the supply chain and into the hands of the end user. Inbound logistics has been using tracking tech to speed up this process, but Cognosos says finished vehicle logistics is catching up – and could be set to overtake it.

Automotive Logistics

JLR uses AI to strengthen supply chain

JLR has partnered with predictive insights firm Everstream Analytics to embed artificial intelligence (AI) into its supply chain.

Megan Kelly

A picture paints a thousand words for Ford’s quality inspection

In an effort to improve the damage-free delivery of its vehicles, Ford has embarked on a journey to digitalise its quality inspection and repair process.

Marcus Williams

Data visibility provides a crystal ball for VW’s port quality operations

Volkswagen is now able to standardise and improve the vehicle inspection and repair process at its port locations in North America, with greater transparency on logistics flow and a more accurate ETA for vehicle deliveries, supported by software from Inform

Marcus Williams

Nissan is thinking outside the box to improve vehicle deliveries

As vehicle production recovers in North America carmakers with ambitious plans to recover lead time and rebuild inventory are struggling with capacity constraints across every transport mode.

Marcus Williams

That’s a wrap, but the conversation is just getting started for finished vehicle logistics

At the end of FVL North America 2023, Christopher Ludwig reflects on the top themes of the event, with one thing clear: things are changing faster in vehicle logistics than ever before.

The FVL party has started: capacity, ETA, standards and network changes

Halfway through this year’s conference on the sidelines of the evening reception, Christopher Ludwig sums up the highlights so far.

The winds of change: welcome to Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2023

Editor-in-Chief Christopher Ludwig welcomes delegates to this year’s event during the opening cocktail reception.

VW Group of America: what data points in the delivery chain help us act?

Anu Goel says it’s important for Volkswagen to determine what visibility logistics teams need versus what the customer needs – as they are not always the same.

Mercedes Benz: People are our most critical asset in vehicle logistics

Rory Hepner points to the partnerships and human capital that will help the Mercedes-Benz USA meet its ambitions for service and electrification.

Tesla outlines strategy on supply chain emissions in Impact Report

In its recently published 2022 Impact Report, Tesla reveals that its supply chain is responsible for between 30-50% of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced over the total lifecycle of one of its vehicles. It also explains in detail what it is doing to better measure and tackle Scope 3 emissions – those produced by activities outside of its immediate control.

Marcus Williams

Wallenius Wilhelmsen expands services with Syngin digital platform

Wallenius Wilhelmsen has bought the outstanding 30% of Syngin Technology and will make the operations part of Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s new digital supply chain services unit.

Marcus Williams

US vehicle inventory highest in two years

US vehicle inventory increased in March to 1.89m, equal to a 56-day supply, according to research compiled by Cox Automotive and the Automotive News Research & Data Center.

Marcus Williams

Capacity crisis continues: finished vehicle logistics survey Q1 2023

Download this exclusive report to discover the latest challenges facing finished vehicle logistics. Based on an extensive survey of FVL users and providers in the last quarter of 2022, the results provide clear insight into the specific issues affecting the logistics sector and wider market sentiment across the automotive industry.

Daniel Harrison

Renault and Bosch reap the benefits of digital investments

Carmakers and their suppliers are looking at a range of digital platforms to provide a complete end-to-end view of the automotive supply chain and make operations more predictable, stable and transparent. They are also looking to save transport costs at a time of rising fuel and equipment costs, a saving that goes hand-in-hand with a more sustainable transport strategy.

Marcus Williams

Interview: Step-by-step to a better supply chain at Plastic Omnium

Plastic Omnium’s Étienne Jacob wants to improve communication between OEM and tier one supply chain teams to help mitigate risks – part of his strategy of practical steps for suppliers to improve efficiency, sustainability and digitalisation one step at a time.

Interview: Renault's journey to the supply chain metaverse

Jean-François Salles reveals how Renault Group is advancing predictive management of its supply chain and supporting employees to take faster decisions across locations – while looking ahead to a true ‘metaverse’ for supply chain and logistics