Model-based engineering in the automotive industry: the ultimate digital transformation.

Insights

04 Dec 2024

Model-based engineering

Model-Based Engineering (MBE) has emerged as a key methodology in industry to improve efficiency and reduce costs and lead times in the design and development of complex systems. Although its initial application was concentrated in sectors such as aerospace, defense and the naval industry, its begun to have a profound impact on the automotive industry, revolutionizing both the large Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and the suppliers in the supply chain.

This article explores how MBE is transforming the way vehicles are designed, tested and manufactured, and how this methodology is penetrating every level of the automotive supply chain.

What is MBE?

Model-based engineering is a methodology that uses digital representations or models to design and simulate complex systems. It is based on the creation of models that integrate different engineering disciplines, such as mechanics, electronics and software with the objective of representing not only the physical properties, but also the

behavior and relationships of an element or subsystem within a complex system.

This allows engineers to evaluate performance and make decisions prior to physical implementation.

Using model-based engineering, engineers can create detailed representations that allow them to visualize the behavior of the system under various conditions without having to physically build it. These models allow virtual testing to identify potential system failures or inefficiencies in order to iteratively adjust and improve the system, significantly reducing the time and costs associated with prototyping.

MBE in the aeroespace, naval and defense industries

MBE recorded its first successes in industries such as aerospace, defense and naval, where system complexity and simultaneously managing multiple variables are critical. An emblematic example is NASA, which has used advanced models to define, simulate and validate its flight systems prior to physical testing, significantly reducing development costs.

In the naval sector, companies such as Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics have employed MBE to design submarines and ships, enabling the integration of mechanical, electrical and software subsystems in a virtual environment before building the first physical prototypes. Similarly, the defense industry is benefiting from the use of model-based engineering in systems integration, achieving greater interoperability and reduced development times. One example is the future European FCAS fighter aircraft.

MBE in the automotive industry

In recent years, major automakers have begun to adopt MBE as a fundamental tool to meet the challenges of digital continuity and sustainable mobility. Today’s vehicles, especially electric and autonomous vehicles, increasingly rely on integrated hardware and software systems that require more sophisticated management during development.

OEMs such as General Motors, Ford, Toyota and Volkswagen use MBE to optimize the design of their vehicles from the early conceptual stages to series production. The use of MBE allows engineers to virtually test the interaction between different subsystems, such as electric motors, energy management systems and autonomous driving sensors. This approach significantly reduces development times, lowers the costs associated with physical prototypes, and improves vehicle quality and reliability.

MBE is expanding into the automotive supply chain

One of the big challenges facing the automotive industry in its digital transformation is bringing advanced methodologies such as MBE to the downstream supply chain. OEMs have made already significant investments in MBE implementation, and now Tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers, responsible for supplying smaller components and systems, are beginning to adopt these practices.

The future of MBE in the automotive industry

The advancement of autonomous driving, vehicle electrification and the implementation of connected systems are driving the adoption of MBE as an essential methodology for automotive design and production.

Model-Based Engineering is revolutionizing the way vehicles are designed, tested and manufactured. As OEMs and their suppliers move towards full digitization, MBE plays a key role in integrating complex systems, improving efficiency and reducing costs. Although the automotive industry is in the early stages of this transformation, the potential of MBE to improve quality and accelerate the development of innovative vehicles is undeniable.

CT’s role in the deployment of MBE.

Always attentive to technological trends and with the founding mission of using the most advanced methodologies, processes and tools at the service of improving the efficiency of our customers, CT has launched the MBE Center of Excellence with the aim of deploying this methodology in all technological areas. Taking advantage of our extensive experience in the aeronautical and aerospace sectors, we are promoting the application of model-based engineering in all sectors with special attention to the automotive sector, where this technology will play a key role in the near future.