Electrical build issues in automotive product development : an analysis

Abstract

To be competitive and successful within the automotive industry the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have to bring new products with features fast to market. The OEMs need to reduce the Product Development cycle time. Prototype builds are common in automotive product development. Reducing the number of prototype builds and the related builds issues is very important. This research examines one automotive company's product development process. Issues pertaining to electrical system typically top the list of build issues. The electrical issues for different vehicle programs were studied. Interviews were conducted with key stake holders of the electrical distribution systems to understand the issues. Finally, based on the study's analysis and results, effective corrective actions are identified and recommendations for their incorporation are made.