The automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). Among these innovations, AI has emerged as a key enabler of efficiency and collaboration in simulation processes, offering the potential to revolutionize product development.<\/p>\n
Torbj\u00f6rn Virdung, technical leader for the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) team at Volvo Cars, provides valuable insight into how AI is reshaping enterprise culture and engineering workflows. Drawing from Volvo\u2019s experience, we explore the transformative impact of AI on simulation practices, change management, and cross-functional collaboration.<\/p>\n
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Volvo Cars began its journey into AI and simulation technology in 2019, well before the technology became a widespread industry buzzword. The primary driver was to address long simulation times and the complexities of evaluating multiple design concepts.<\/p>\n
\u201cTime costs money,\u201d explains Virdung, emphasizing the critical need for efficiency in the early stages of automotive design. With increasingly complex geometries and lengthy computational requirements, Volvo recognized AI\u2019s potential to accelerate the evaluation process, enabling engineers to focus on the most promising concepts early on.<\/p>\n
For example, evaluating five car designs using traditional high-fidelity simulations could take days and require extensive computational resources. With AI, preliminary assessments can be performed much faster, allowing teams to eliminate less feasible options and prioritize the most viable ones.<\/p>\n
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Securing internal buy-in was a pivotal step in Volvo\u2019s AI journey. The company\u2019s openness to innovation – a hallmark of its culture – played a crucial role.<\/p>\n
We\u2019re a relatively small car company compared to the global giants. To survive, we must embrace new technologies and ways of working.<\/p>\n
The journey began with a focused business case targeting aerodynamics, an area where simulation times were especially long. By demonstrating the tangible benefits AI could offer, Volvo\u2019s leadership approved a pilot project to evaluate the technology. This included a year-long collaboration with leading AI vendors to explore its potential.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
While initial skepticism existed among some stakeholders, the results of the pilot project helped win over even the most cautious engineers. Starting small and focusing on a single application proved effective in demonstrating AI\u2019s potential without overwhelming the organization.<\/p>\n
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\nThe Role of AI in Modernising Automotive Simulation Practices<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
As the automotive industry grapples with increasing pressures to reduce time-to-market and cut development costs, AI has emerged as a powerful enabler. At Volvo, AI is not viewed as a replacement for traditional simulations but as a complementary tool.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe see AI as a means to evaluate concepts faster,\u201d explains Virdung. \u201cFor example, if we\u2019re assessing the aerodynamic performance of a new taillight design, AI can quickly eliminate unfeasible options, allowing us to concentrate on the most promising solutions.\u201d<\/p>\n
This efficiency extends beyond aerodynamics. While the current focus is on one domain, Volvo envisions applying AI to other areas, such as durability and climate system simulations. In the long term, the integration of AI into the development process could significantly reshape how teams work, enabling more collaboration between design and engineering teams.<\/p>\n
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\nBridging Engineering Departments with the Automotive Digital Thread<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
One of the most intriguing outcomes of Volvo\u2019s AI adoption has been its potential to strengthen the \u201cdigital thread\u201d- the seamless flow of data across different departments. For instance, designers using Blender can now receive immediate feedback on how changes in geometry impact aerodynamics, fostering more iterative and collaborative workflows.<\/p>\n
\u201cDesigners can morph geometry in real time and instantly see its aerodynamic implications,\u201d says Virdung. This integration not only saves time but also helps align design and engineering objectives earlier in the process, reducing the risk of costly changes later in development.<\/p>\n
The digital thread also has broader implications for enterprise culture. By breaking down silos and promoting cross-functional collaboration, it positions companies like Volvo to leverage technology for greater innovation and efficiency.<\/p>\n
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\nLessons Learned from AI Adoption in Automotive Engineering<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
Volvo\u2019s experience offers valuable insights for leaders considering AI adoption:<\/p>\n
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- Understand the Technology\u2019s Potential: Engage with suppliers, stay informed about advancements, and identify areas where AI can have the most significant impact on processes.<\/li>\n
- Secure Management Support: Demonstrate the potential time and cost savings to gain executive buy-in. Volvo achieved this by presenting a clear business case focused on a high-impact area.<\/li>\n
- Invest Time and Resources: AI adoption requires dedicated time and resources to evaluate potential applications thoroughly. Volvo allocated a full year to its proof of concept and extended the timeline for further evaluation.<\/li>\n
- Start Small: Begin with a focused pilot project to demonstrate AI\u2019s capabilities. This approach allows teams to learn and adapt without overwhelming the organization.<\/li>\n
- Prepare for Cultural Shifts: AI adoption will likely change existing workflows and require new ways of thinking. Organizations must be open to these changes and invest in training and collaboration to ensure success.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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\nThe Future of AI\u2011Driven Simulation in Automotive Engineering<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
While AI\u2019s adoption in automotive simulation is still in its early stages, its potential is undeniable. Virdung predicts that within a decade, AI will significantly change how teams work, enabling faster, more informed decision-making across the development lifecycle.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn the short term, AI is a complement,\u201d he explains. \u201cBut as surrogate models improve, they will allow us to predict smaller changes with greater accuracy, fundamentally transforming the way we approach design and engineering.\u201d<\/p>\n
This transformation isn\u2019t limited to automotive engineering. The lessons Volvo is learning have implications for industries ranging from aerospace to manufacturing, where efficiency and innovation are equally critical.<\/p>\n
Volvo\u2019s journey into AI-powered simulation leadership serves as an inspiring example of how companies can embrace change to stay competitive. By focusing on collaboration, efficiency, and cultural adaptation, the company is paving the way for a future where AI and simulation work hand in hand to drive innovation.<\/p>\n
\u201cAI is a technology we can\u2019t afford to neglect,\u201d Virdung concludes. \u201cIt\u2019s not just about saving time and money – it\u2019s about building better products and preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
For industry leaders, the message is clear: the time to explore AI\u2019s potential is now. With careful planning and a commitment to collaboration, organizations can unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.<\/p>\n
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This blog is based on a recent podcast in our Simulation Leadership series.<\/span><\/p>\n