Flexibility Challenges in Automotive Assembly, An Approach to Stay Competitive

The undergoing adaptation of mass customization, alongside the development and demand for new power trains, is challenging the manufacturing system of automotive manufacturers. This, in combination with demands from emerging markets and constantly decreasing product lifecycles, calls for increased flexibility. Based on the research findings, key flexibility types for the automotive industry were identified as Mix, New Product, Modification and Volume flexibility. To achieve these flexibilities, the mixed model assembly, modularity and platform strategies are identified as important factors. A generic BOP as part of the platform strategy is central to enable transferring of production