When There Has Only Been 2 Major Revolutions in Automotive Manufacturing: Ford Model T and Toyota

Automotive manufacturing has seen only two significant transformations in its history. The first was the Ford Model T, which introduced mass production methods, and the second was Toyota’s lean manufacturing techniques in the 1970s. Will Electric Vehicles (EVs) be a third revolution, or is there something else on the horizon?

The EV Revolution vs. Previous Transformations

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are indeed a major shift in how cars are manufactured. They represent a significant transformation in automotive technology, but they are not quite a revolution in the same sense as the Ford Model T or Toyota’s lean manufacturing techniques. Streamlining and efficiency were at the heart of these earlier changes, focusing on reducing production costs and complexity.

Despite the significant advances in EV technology, they often demand more complex manufacturing processes and logistics. This is quite different from what Ford and Toyota achieved. The EV manufacturing process can be more intricate, involving a broader range of components and more sophisticated engineering approaches.

Potential Upcoming Revolution: 3D Printing and High-Speed Guideways

The next major revolution in automotive manufacturing could come from 3D printing technologies. This innovative technology is already changing various industries and could have a transformative impact on car manufacturing. 3D printing could enable new levels of customization, reduce waste, and improve efficiency in production.

Another potential revolutionary change is the implementation of high-speed guideways. These guideways would constrain cars to specific paths, allowing for much faster and safer travel. Imagine a vehicle being fully controlled and interacting with a high-speed guideway, potentially reaching speeds of up to 297 mpgE (equivalent miles per gallon electrical).

Toyota and Emissions Scandal

Some have questioned the significance of Toyota’s contribution to automotive revolutions. Rather than focusing on genuine innovations, Toyota was recently embroiled in a scandal involving their diesel truck division, where they were found to have lied about emissions for 20 years. This raises serious doubts about their commitment to real technological advancements.

From BEVs to Hydrogen: Renewed Fads and Future Potential

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) have been around for much longer than the Ford Model T. BEVs were a prominent technology before the Model T era, but were eventually displaced. Over the years, there have been repeated attempts to revive BEVs, with the latest being since 2009. These attempts are often labeled as "renewed fads" and have failed to gain significant traction.

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) have the potential to be the next big revolution. Hydrogen is seen as a more sustainable and potentially transformative energy source for various modes of transportation, including trucks, trains, ships, and planes. As hydrogen technology advances, it is likely that cars will also transition to this cleaner source of energy.

Some critics argue that BEVs are not a true revolution because they offer little in terms of significant advancements compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. They also face the challenge of battery range limitations and recharging infrastructure. On the other hand, hydrogen can potentially solve these issues and offer a more sustainable and versatile energy solution.

Conclusion

While EVs represent a significant shift in automotive manufacturing, they may not be a full-fledged revolution in the same vein as the Ford Model T and Toyota’s lean manufacturing techniques. The automotive industry is evolving rapidly, with 3D printing and high-speed guideways potentially leading the charge. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, on the other hand, offer a promising alternative that could truly revolutionize the industry in the near future.

Keywords

Automotive manufacturing, electric vehicles, 3D printing