Collaboration to drive innovation is nothing new and its benefits are well understood. Sometimes sharing data, IP or even co-developing new products can lead to better outcomes than going it alone.
Auto makers have a track record for teaming up, but it remains the exception rather than the norm. Ford and Mazda co-developing the 4F27E 4-speed automatic transmission and rolling it out in their respective vehicle line-ups is one example. And more recently, Tesla working with Toyota on the all-electric RAV 4 EV.
But as the market accelerates to meet a surge in demand for EVs, vehicle manufacturers are realising that operating in isolation may not be the smartest, or quickest, path to success.
A case in point is Volkswagen’s MEB platform. Access to which, gives other car manufacturers the ability to build their portfolio of electrified vehicles, quickly and cost effectively. Meanwhile, the combined scale allows Volkswagen to have better cost leverage when designing and sourcing components.
This cultural shift toward greater collaboration is also relevant for the mobility industry, which came together this week for ITS’ National Mobility 2022 conference.
Like the automotive industry, the mobility industry has traditionally operated in silos. This has led to an environment where companies have sought to build large end-to-end platforms which claim to do everything, but at the same time, do only a few things well.
But as the demand for new modes of transport, and more sustainable travel options evolves, a new ecosystem of mobility is emerging. And alongside this, a stronger desire for companies to partner and do things differently.
Reflecting on the themes and speakers at Mobility 2022, there are two things the mobility industry needs to consider. Firstly, how we can deliver more sustainable solutions which benefit broader society. And secondly, how we forge cross-industry partnerships – from OEMS to road authorities – that deliver the most impactful solutions.
Data is a good place to start. Especially data used to drive decisions impacting our environment. In Europe for example, they have established a shared data repository which can be openly accessed – giving entire industries valuable insights into road use, environmental metrics and trends. Creating a similar facility in Australia would create a solid foundation for collaboration.
The way we think about innovation also needs to shift. Creating more technology and newer types of data may not always lead to the best outcomes or ROI. Installation of new equipment, while effective, can come with significant lead times and cost. Building data models with new and existing sources can give a quick return on investment while newer measures are being deployed.
Data is also the key to creating new cross-industry partnerships. At Intelematics we have seen success generating data which is of benefit to mutual partners. For example, bringing together a large auto OEM and a major road authority to share in-car and road data – one using it to build better roads and the other better cars.
The global mobility industry’s transformation has far-reaching implications. What we do next will have a significant impact on industry, people’s lives and the environment. I firmly believe that partnerships will drive future opportunities and deliver the most positive outcomes.
The first step is to breakdown existing silos by recognising that we are all part of the same ecosystem. Next, we have to accept that no company can be good at everything and be prepared to seek out established leaders and experts.
The next couple of years will be critical to shaping the future of mobility and transport in Australia. And I’m looking forward to helping Intelematics develop the partnerships that will play their part in redefining how we move within neighbourhoods, through cities, and across countries.
