Following the disruption caused by the pandemic and global computer chip shortage automaker Jaguar Land Rover is to use artificial intelligence to anticipate future shocks. Tony McDonough reports
Carmaker Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is to use artificial intelligence (AI) to help it predict future shocks to its business and supply chain.
Similar to countless other businesses JLR faced severe disruption due to the COVID pandemic. It also then faced significant problems due to a global shortage of semiconductor computer chips which caused production shutdowns.
JLR employs more than 3,500 people at Halewood in Merseyside assembling the Range Rover, Evoque and the Land Rover Discovery Sport. By 2025 a new all-electric SUV model will be rolling off the production line at the site.
With this multi-billion pound transformation already under way JLR is keen to protect its business by looking to anticipate where and how future challenges to its business and supply chain will emerge.
Now it is teaming up with New York-based Everstream Analytics, which specialises in supply chain mapping and risk analytics. Everstream will embed AI into JLR’s supply chain management.
With this new technology, JLR can monitor its supply chain in real-time in order to help avert any future global supply issues, protecting the production of its current models and next generation of pure-electric vehicles.
This technology analyses data using a combination of AI, predictive analytics, machine learning and human intuition to plot emerging incidents such as natural disasters, strikes, data breaches and export issues on a global map.
Updating in real time, the system takes measures to avoid any industrial disruption, which could impact production and increase costs.
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Barbara Bergmeier, executive director of industrial relations at JLR, said: “As part of our Reimagine Strategy, we are building a robust digital-first industrial operations ecosystem consisting of advanced technology and long-term strategic relationships.
“This gives us end-to-end visibility of global shocks in an increasingly unpredictable world.
“Through our collaboration with Everstream Analytics, we are harnessing the power of AI to proactively manage risks before they cause disruption to production, ensuring we are resilient and can deliver on the commitments we make to our clients.
“This foresight will become even more critical as we develop a new value chain around our next generation ultra-desirable modern luxury electric vehicles.”
Using Everstream’s insights, JLR has already taken positive action to avoid disruption at global freight ports to support delivery of vehicles to clients.
Julie Gerdeman, chief executive of Everstream, added: “The global value chains serving electrified vehicles are among the most complex to navigate.
“Everstream Analytics’ AI-driven supplier visibility and insights empower JLR to proactively mitigate risks, enhance agility, and promote supply chain resilience.”