Brexit causing automotive industry to splutter to a halt like an Austin Allegro

I've been keeping a close eye on how our automotive sector is doing, because anyone with an understanding of business and the economy would appreciate how important the industry is to Britain. But the fact is, Brexit has been battering this very industry and today we're met with even more worrying news. Figures show Britain's car industry investment has dropped by half with major car companies choosing not to invest into their UK factories. For months and months, automotive industry leaders have been switching on the hazard lights, in the emergency refuge area that has become the home of the UK motor trade – all to be ignored by the Government. And so I wonder, will the latest revelations encourage ministers to call for roadside assistance, or leave the automotive sector to splutter to a halt and die like an Austin Allegro.

Forum will analyse future of automotive industry in SA

The South African motor industry is in a state of flux as it waits to hear the government's final master plan for the industry for the period 2020-35. "We have linked this insightful conference and exhibition to our Automechanika automotive after-market trade fair brand to stress its credibility and value to the South African motor industry," said Tracy Gounden, show director for the Cape Automotive Forum. He serves on a number of relevant organisations, from the SA Chamber of Commerce and Industry to Nedlac, Business Unity SA and the Motor Industry Development Council. The automotive after-market has also been affected with an increase to a trend towards DIY repairs with the ability of end-users to source parts and accessories online. Says Gounden: "We are pleased with the calibre of speakers at forum, which is a must attend event for people involved in SA's motor industry."

Smart factory adoption could be catalyst for automotive industry

referring to A new study has found that adoption of smart factory technology is set to add up to $160 billion annually to the global auto industry in productivity gains by 2023 onwards. Meanwhile, at a further 43% of automotive companies, smart factory initiatives are currently being formulated. Researchers found that, the automotive sector has the highest share of organisations which have invested more than $250 million in smart factories. Along with America, which under its current administration is placing a heightened importance on home-grown manufacturing, manufacturing hubs of India and China also lag behind Western Europe's main players. This study clearly demonstrates the enthusiasm among automotive organizations to invest in smart factories and the awareness of the long-term benefits.

collected by :Catlin Logan