JLR enhances Solihull plant with Ericsson Private 5G tech

Ericsson has announced that Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is enhancing its industrial connectivity at the Solihull plant in the United Kingdom with the deployment of Ericsson Private 5G.

The implementation of this advanced networking technology is aimed at supporting the production of Range Rover vehicles by backing critical applications such as vision systems, IoT sensors, and production tools. This step is significant for JLR in its embrace of Industry 4.0, which relies on the latest technology to optimise manufacturing processes.

The decision to adopt Ericsson's 5G solution is driven by the limitations of traditional wired networks. By "cutting the copper," JLR seeks to replace these older systems with robust 5G capabilities, allowing for seamless and real-time data transmission. This connectivity transformation aims to make JLR's manufacturing processes both more connected and agile, streamlining operations in the process.

JLR's adoption of private 5G is also reported to enhance workflow efficiency within manufacturing teams. The improved connectivity facilitates faster data insights and simulations, translating into operational efficiencies on the factory floor through DataOps platforms like Litmus. This allows JLR to quickly innovate and optimise processes, further supported by the ability to swiftly swap and provision new or broken connected tools on the production line, thereby reducing downtime.

Fujitsu has partnered with Ericsson to deliver the connectivity for this comprehensive private 5G-based operation at Solihull. The collaboration sets a foundation for JLR to potentially explore additional use cases across other sites in the future.

Stephen Mason, Product Manager, Manufacturing, Global IT at JLR, stated: "As a leading global luxury automotive manufacturer, it is crucial for us to equip our teams with the tools and connectivity necessary to optimise efficiency. Ericsson Private 5G provides a robust foundation for a connected, agile, and data-driven manufacturing environment. This positions us to enhance automation, digitalisation, safety, and sustainability across our operations."

Manish Tiwari, Head of Enterprise 5G, Enterprise Wireless Solutions, Ericsson, added: "Private 5G is transforming manufacturing by supporting the complex connectivity needs of Industry 4.0. We are thrilled to partner with a luxury automotive leader like JLR, providing a network solution that elevates their global manufacturing capabilities."

Ericsson's high-performing, programmable networks provide connectivity for billions of people every day. The company offers mobile communication and connectivity solutions for service providers and enterprises.