COLLABORATIVE R&D DETROIT STYLE - AUTOLINE THIS WEEK 1705

EV Channels Review

Autoline This Week's episode 1705 delves into the crucial role of USCAR (United States Council for Automotive Research) in fostering collaborative, pre-competitive R&D among GM, Ford, and Chrysler. Executive Director Steve Zimmer highlights USCAR's 20-year history of enabling competitors to work together on technologies vital for the American auto industry's competitiveness. Key areas of focus include advanced batteries through the USABC, lightweighting materials like carbon fiber and magnesium, and developing common standards for components like connectors. The discussion also touches upon advanced manufacturing techniques, including human-robot collaboration and digital human modeling for factory design, as well as advancements in vehicle safety through crash dummy development. While acknowledging the inherent tension between competition and collaboration, Zimmer argues that the complexity of modern automotive challenges necessitates cooperation to maintain global competitiveness and deliver value to consumers.