JLR is accelerating industrial connectivity at its Solihull plant with the implementation of Ericsson Private 5G. This cutting-edge networking technology is enhancing the production of Range Rover vehicles by supporting business-critical applications such as vision systems, IoT sensors, and production tools. Leveraging Ericsson's high-speed, low-latency, and secure private 5G solution, JLR is setting new standards in modern automotive manufacturing.
The deployment of Ericsson Private 5G is a pivotal step for JLR in embracing Industry 4.0. JLR is creating a more agile and innovative manufacturing environment to support IoT devices, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation with an eye toward automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The limitations of traditional wired networks drove JLR to “cut the copper” replacing those networks with Ericsson's robust 5G capabilities, allowing for seamless and real-time data transmission. This transformation ensures that JLR's manufacturing processes are not only connected but also agile and efficient, leading to streamlined operations.
Private 5G is driving greater workflow efficiency at JLR, with manufacturing teams already sharing positive feedback. Through enhanced connectivity, maintenance and production, managers can now turn data insights and simulations into tangible operational efficiencies with DataOps platforms such as Litmus. Consolidating and analysing data empowers JLR decision-makers on the factory floor to quickly innovate and optimise manufacturing processes. Additionally, private 5G enables JLR to quickly swap and provision new or broken connected tools, significantly reducing downtime and enabling quicker modifications to the production line.
Fujitsu has partnered with Ericsson to deliver the connectivity of this comprehensive, end-to-end private 5G-based operations at the Solihull plant. This collaboration paves the way for JLR to explore use cases at other sites in the future.
Stephen Mason, Product Manager, Manufacturing, Global IT at JLR says: “As a leading global luxury automotive manufacturer, it is crucial for us to equip our teams with the tools and connectivity necessary to optimise efficiency. Ericsson Private 5G provides a robust foundation for a connected, agile, and data-driven manufacturing environment. This positions us to enhance automation, digitalisation, safety, and sustainability across our operations.”
Manish Tiwari, Head of Enterprise 5G, Enterprise Wireless Solutions, Ericsson says: “Private 5G is transforming manufacturing by supporting the complex connectivity needs of Industry 4.0. We are thrilled to partner with a luxury automotive leader like JLR, providing a network solution that elevates their global manufacturing capabilities.”
