“Cybersecurity is the top priority for automakers,” says Rockwell Automation report

Rockwell Automation, a company specializing in industrial automation and digital transformation, has released its 9th annual ‘State of Smart Manufacturing Report – Automotive’. The report was conducted with 182 leaders from automotive manufacturers, automotive supply chain manufacturers, and electric vehicle manufacturers in 15 major manufacturing countries.

According to the report, the automotive industry is focused on leveraging emerging technologies to reduce risk, create growth, and maximize workforce potential. Automakers recognize that the industry is rapidly evolving into the Industry 4.0 era. In particular, they are well aware of the severity of security issues, with the cost of system downtime due to cyberattacks reaching $1.99 billion (about 2.75 trillion won) in the first half of 2023.

Key findings reveal that cybersecurity risks are emerging as the top external barrier affecting automakers in 2024, jumping from ninth place in 2023 to first place. Additionally, 97% of automakers are using or evaluating smart manufacturing technologies, up from 85% in 2023. Technology investments are up 35% year-over-year, from 23% to 31% of operating budgets. Wearable technology is one of the top 10 investment areas for automakers in 2024, ranking third overall. Employee engagement is identified as the top workforce-related barrier for automakers in 2024, while reducing manufacturing waste is highlighted as the most important element of automakers’ ESG programs.

Automakers are focusing on strategies that prioritize workforce retention, upskilling, and engagement. Technologies such as smart manufacturing and automation are playing a key role in complementing and augmenting employee capabilities, leading to positive business outcomes, the companies emphasized.

“As the automotive industry enters an era of rapid change, setting clear goals and fostering collaboration across departments have emerged as both critical enablers and barriers to success,” said James Glasson, vice president, Automotive, Tire and Advanced Mobility, Rockwell Automation. “This year’s report underscores the urgent need for automakers to prioritize change management in their organizations and embrace technologies that empower their workforce.”

More information about the 9th ‘Smart Manufacturing Status Report – Automotive’ can be found on the Rockwell Automation website.
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