Strategies for the sensible use of AI technologies
The automotive industry has always been synonymous with technological innovation – from the introduction of automated production lines to the digital networking of production processes. One technology that is currently the focus of particular attention is artificial intelligence (AI). While it has been intensively researched and developed for years, it has now also reached the attention of the wider public, at least since the release of ChatGPT.
But what does this mean for us as an automotive supplier? How much substance is there behind the hype? And how can we integrate AI into our processes in a meaningful and responsible way?
Our answer: With sound knowledge, clear evaluation, and practical implementation.
Pooling expertise – the AI Competence Center
To anchor the topic strategically and operationally, we have established a company-wide Competence Center for Artificial Intelligence. It is managed by IT and works across departments and locations. The aim is to identify potential, pool knowledge, and implement specific use cases – always with a view to the actual benefits for our processes.
We do not take a dogmatic approach. Whether a challenge is solved with AI or another technology, the decisive factor is what works best. For us, AI is not an end in itself, but one tool among many. Our teams systematically examine where AI brings real added value – whether in quality assurance, production planning, or customer service.
The Competence Center pursues a clear vision: “To make us ready for the next reliable AI solution.” In line with our corporate vision “Ready for the next car!”, the focus here is also on future viability – not only in terms of products, but also in terms of processes and technologies. We are specifically preparing ourselves to identify new requirements at an early stage, evaluate them thoroughly, and respond with the appropriate solution. AI is a central component in sustainably strengthening our innovative power.
AI everywhere – but don't trust it blindly
It seems like every software product today has the tagline “AI-supported.” That sounds promising – it suggests future viability and innovative power. But should we jump at the chance just because a tool supposedly contains a promising technology? No. We rely on critical evaluation: What is really behind the promise of AI? What specific functions are implemented? And how reliable, transparent, and secure are they?
Our decision for or against a tool is not based on buzzwords, but on robust criteria: functionality, depth of integration, data quality, and actual benefit for our processes.
Why we are acting now
What has convinced us to devote so much attention to the topic of AI? The performance of AI models has developed exponentially in recent years – and there is currently no reason to believe that this will change in the future. Anyone who is aware of the exponential growth curve will quickly realize that we are only at the beginning of a technological journey that will fundamentally change our working world.
And we are packing our suitcase carefully for this journey: with expertise, infrastructure, and a clear strategy. We are investing specifically in training, pilot projects, and exchanges with external partners. Because only those who understand how AI works and where it can be used effectively will benefit from it in the long term.
Conclusion
For us, artificial intelligence is neither hype nor a panacea—it is a powerful technology that we use with a sense of proportion and expertise. Our goal is to make processes more intelligent, efficient, and future-proof. And that is precisely why we are intensively engaged with AI today—not because it is a trend, but because it has substance.
- Jana Finke – Head of Competence Center Artificial Intelligence