The automotive sector is one of the most dynamic and competitive sectors in the world accounting for much of the export revenue of the industrialized economies. There are many market forces affecting this sector creating several market trends such as increased computerization & electronics in vehicles, greater gas efficiency coupled with alternative eco-friendly power sources, and an increased focus on quality & safety.
These trends co-exist with more traditional mechanical centric engineering, which had focused on slick designs, great ride & handling, NVH (Noise, Vibration & Harshness), and increased vehicle performance. Moreover, the industry is structurally changing with a greater focus on integration both among OEMs as well with traditional Tier 1 suppliers, who today behave more as co-development partners.
In this competitive and changing sector, we offer clients integrated consulting services and technology implementations at the system, assembly and component level working with OEMs, Tier-1 Suppliers and their supply chain. Some of the systems we support include:
VEHICLE SYSTEMS – Systems design involves the integration of all the assemblies (including electronics, fuel systems, hydraulic components, thermal etc.) to ensure full vehicle function. Model Based Design system simulation tools are employed to understand the interaction of different assembly sub-systems.
CHASSIS – The chassis is the internal frame of the vehicle and the main load bearing structure (like a skeleton). Most manufacturers use a platform strategy where there are common assemblies and parts that are reused in different in models. The rolling chassis composed of the chassis (the skeleton) plus the running gear such as the Steering & Braking Systems and Transmission & Suspension Systems. The rolling chassis tends to drive vehicle dynamics (ride & handling) and crash-worthiness (ability of the structure to protect occupant during an impact).
BODY – The body is the remaining shape/configuration that completes the vehicle. The body tends to drive vehicle efficiency due to aerodynamic loading and NVH (Noise Vibration & Harshness).