A leading specialist supplier of performance parts, components and upgrades for Porsche has explained how artificial intelligence (AI) may impact the UK motor trade parts industry – and how those influences may affect both commercial and private users.
Design911 offers trade and direct delivery parts with depots in Essex and the Netherlands, enabling the company to supply its EU customer base. It features selected OEM, performance and aftermarket brands, including producers whose components are used exclusively in new Porsche manufacturing.
The Potential Uses of 3D Printed Automotive Parts Production
One of the many implications of AI may relate to the production of OEM Porsche parts. Karl Chopra, MD of Design911 explains that ‘An OEM part is made by the Original Equipment Manufacturer. In essence, these parts – whether related to an engine, braking system, suspension or bodywork - are a like-for-like replacement for the component originally fitted into the vehicle as-new from the production line.
Of course, over time, the materials and processes used in the technical manufacture of automotive parts may advance but adhere to the same standards and performance specifications of the original component.’
3D printing companies have recently turned their attention to the global car parts sector. They are looking at ways to leverage this innovative technology to enable them to produce on-spec, high-demand and even bespoke parts in a greatly reduced turnaround time.
While the mass rollout of such a service would require dynamic programming to ensure that 3D printing equipment could recognise the unique and accurate specifications of each part, there is strong potential for this to become a reality.
Porsche itself has expressed an interest in the possibilities. In recent announcements, Porsche Ventures’ CEO said it planned to boost applications and introduce the 'significant innovation potential' of 3D printing processes to allow for more flexible, customised services.
The Porsche Ventures organisation, based in China, is connected to the Porsche Group and provides investment in new enterprises and manufacturers, acting as a venture capitalist to explore advancements that link to the overarching principles and objectives of the marque as a brand.
How AI May Become Integral to Porsche Parts Production
In other avenues, an analytical report created by ResearchAndMarkets dived into the ways that developments may influence the already significant growth trajectory of the motor vehicle parts market.
The research agency reported that when considering the periods between 2022 to 2031:
- Motor vehicle parts as a sector was valued at just under £2,193 billion ($2,781.3 billion) as of 2021 and is anticipated to reach a value of £3,203.91 billion ($4,063.2 billion) by 2026.
- The compound growth rate of the market is expected to reach 7.9% in the same period.
- Forward projections are that the growth rate will continue at 6.8% annually to achieve an anticipated value of £4,447.33 billion ($5,640.1 billion) by 2031.
This report also looks at how trend-based strategy may feed into the future development of the market, with the potential to use 3D printing technologies to create lower-cost, customisable and lightweight parts to make these components more readily available on demand.
Although the real-world applications of AI may not be market-ready, there is evidence that machine-learning tech can make a positive impact, using tools such as predictive analysis to identify emerging or yet-to-be-reported issues before they materialise.
AI can also be used in next-gen production to introduce efficiencies in manufacturing methods and ensure the best use and minimal wastage of raw materials. It is increasingly utilised in electric vehicle production to provide driver reassurance about the range capacity of their vehicles through on-board virtual assistance platforms.
The Benefits of AI and 3D Printing Within the Porsche Parts Market
Chopra says, 'Overall, these dynamic technologies will benefit the end customer – the driver, mechanic, restorer or enthusiast. We often work with clients looking for rare, out-of-production or hard-to-come-by components for vintage and classic Porsche vehicles. We deploy our years of expertise and connections in tracking down either the extra part they require or the closest available alternative in quality and performance.
We look forward to further collaborating with our extensive network of Porsche-approved and performance parts suppliers and seeing how advanced tech may make parts faster to produce, better tailored to the client's needs, and more sustainable and economical in production.'
Read more about Design911 - Design911 Introduces New Brembo Brakes Parts for UK & EU Delivery
Media Contact:
Tom Harper-Ward
Design 911
+44 (0)208 500 8811
About Design911
Design911 has established itself as the market leader, offering trade and retail customers a full range of OEM and aftermarket Porsche parts for general servicing and rebuild as well as restoration and tuning for the UK, European and world-wide markets. The Design911.co.uk website now sports a Porsche parts finder to help you get the exact aftermarket Porsche part your need. The company's impressive 34,000 sq. ft Essex headquarters comprise sales department, warehouse, workshop and body shop, as well as a showroom of classic Porsches for sale. We pride ourselves that we will be the company that can supply 'every part for every Porsche'.
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Source Company: https://www.design911.co.uk
Published by: Steve OBrien