The automotive parts industry is rapidly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance productivity and address chronic labor shortages. Companies are leveraging AI and automation to improve operational efficiency while reducing costs.
According to industry sources, Hyundai Mobis has established an AI-based evaluation and verification system to aid in the development of key components for autonomous driving and software-defined vehicles (SDVs).
This system collects real-world driving data from test vehicles equipped with various sensors, including radar, cameras, and LiDAR, and transfers it to a simulator for further analysis. The key advantage is the ability to quickly accumulate vast amounts of verification data in a virtual environment, which would typically require years of on-road testing. The simulator can also recreate challenging conditions such as nighttime driving, rain, and unexpected situations that are difficult to replicate in reality. Hyundai Mobis plans to connect multiple simulators to further accelerate the verification process.
A representative from Hyundai Mobis stated, "For automotive components used in autonomous driving software, evaluation and verification are as crucial as technology development. Once the system is fully operational, we expect to conduct the equivalent of 10,000 hours of evaluation and verification in about a week."
Other parts manufacturers are also ramping up investments in AI and automation to enhance productivity and efficiency in developing future vehicles. HL Mando is applying smart factory technology to its production facilities and expanding the use of AI in vehicle and parts data analysis. Daegu-based SL has introduced collaborative robots and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in its production lines, automating logistics and increasing per-person productivity by approximately 10%.
The persistent labor shortage in the automotive parts sector is driving the shift toward AI. According to statistics from the Automotive Industry Human Resources Development Committee, the industry faced a shortfall of 4,000 workers last year, a 5.8% increase from 3,781 in 2024. Notably, the shortage of research and development personnel more than doubled during the same period, rising from 182 to 404. As labor shortages intensify, the need to enhance production and R&D efficiency through AI and automation becomes increasingly critical.
Evidence of AI's impact is already visible in production environments. A report from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy last month highlighted that Asan Seongwoo Hi-Tech implemented an unmanned autonomous manufacturing system for electric vehicle batteries, reducing quality inspection times by 90%.
Kim Pil-soo, a professor at Daelim University’s Future Automotive Department, noted, "Utilizing AI in production environments can significantly reduce waste and enhance productivity. By cutting costs and improving productivity, the automotive parts industry will increasingly recognize the importance of AI in maintaining price competitiveness."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.