Primarily specializing in the manufacture of parts for BMW and future electric SUV models, the plant is the perfect illustration of digital manufacturing’s potential within the automotive supply chain. By integrating digital technologies, the team has successfully optimized production processes, the supply chain, and the product life cycle. Lon Miller, Supply Chain Manager for the Greer site, explains: “Digital manufacturing is more than just automation. It is all about creating an integrated digital environment that enhances every aspect of our operations. For example, our main planning and purchasing systems are now interconnected, making it possible to make adjustments in real time, in response to fluctuating demand.” Information in real time Inside the Greer plant, visitors are struck by two things: the silence and the endless screens that display a wealth of detailed information. “This data is a real gold mine. In the event of a malfunction, five screens make it possible to identify the machine at fault, find out the reason for the shutdown, and more. It is not just an alarm that goes off, it is an entire system that provides us with the necessary data to resolve a problem,” Lon Miller explains. Automation and computerization help optimize oversight of the plant’s logistical efficiency. “The supplier dashboard gives us precise information about delivery times. Using this data, we can identify problems as soon as they arise and resolve them immediately.” Looking to the future, Lon Miller is optimistic yet pragmatic. “Digital manufacturing has huge potential within our industry, but it also brings with it a number of challenges. For instance, we need to provide our teams with regular training to ensure they can keep up with technological progress.” However, Lon Miller emphasizes that the digital aspect of manufacturing will not put an end to human involvement. “Although digital tools improve our capabilities, they cannot replace our teams. On the contrary, they will encourage the creation of new jobs, while giving our employees the opportunity to contribute to activities with more added value.” Sustainability and efficiency The Greer plant’s use of digital technology reflects major developments in the American automotive industry. Given that the sector is under pressure to innovate, improve efficiency, and reduce its environmental impact, digital solutions play an increasingly crucial role. “We do not just manufacture parts: we are laying the foundations for the future of automotive manufacturing,” Lon Miller says excitedly. “Our digital transformation has made us more efficient and more responsive to market needs, while making our products more sustainable.” As the mobility sector continues to evolve, sites like the Greer plant will become benchmarks for assessing the potential of digital production. By adopting these technologies, plants are becoming more competitive and are contributing to OPmobility’s broader transformation.
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