How 3M Next Gear is Optimising Automotive Sourcing

3M has introduced a new digital interface that will allow the company’s technological expertise to be accessed by customers and vendors. 

‘The Next Gear’ is an interactive platform which presents 3M science, technologies and materials, allowing customers to see how the global corporation supports the automotive industry. 3M is a proponent of building lighter, smarter and more efficient vehicles.

Wendy Bauer, President of 3M Transportation and Electronics Business Group says: “The automotive industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation, one that touches every part of the mobility ecosystem, from manufacturers and suppliers to infrastructure.

“3M brings deep expertise across automotive, electronics, manufacturing and advanced materials to help customers solve complex challenges, accelerate development and bring next-generation mobility solutions to market faster. ‘The Next Gear’ provides a comprehensive look at 3M solutions across the mobility ecosystem and demonstrates how we help customers move faster toward what’s ahead.”

The platform highlights each stage of the automotive lifecycle, including: engineering and design, manufacturing, on-road performance, personalisation and repair and end-of-life applications.

It also features various 3M solutions for lighter-weight vehicle design, including materials that reduce weight while maintaining durability and performance.

3M Finesse-it Robotic Paint Repair System is one of the premier technologies on ‘The Next Gear’s’ platform.

The system detects topcoat defects, gives a precise repair strategy recommendation and provides the solution in real-time as the vehicle moves along the line for manufacturing efficiency.

Furthermore, the platform showcases technologies tailored for electric and connected vehicles.

These include battery-related products and thermal management solutions, alongside specialised components designed to safeguard and improve camera sensors, driver monitoring systems, displays and various other user interfaces.

This announcement follows 3M’s continued effort in spearheading the next generation manufacturing leaders. 

Over the years, the organisation’s Manufacturing & Academic Partnerships (MAP) programme has supported over 5,000 students in pursuing future careers in manufacturing.

MAP gives public schools access to advanced mechatronics equipment, student scholarships and faculty training.

Michael Stroik, 3M’s VP of Community Impact says: “3M is helping develop the next generation of problem solvers,”

“Students with career and technical education training possess highly sought-after skills that will be vital to the future workforce. 3M is committed to supporting CTE programmes and furthering the economic impact in our hometown communities.”

In 2020, 3M poured US$135m into a manufacturing facility in Clinton, Tennessee. The bold move signified the company’s commitment to developing products for the oil, gas, and automotive industries.

This laid the groundwork for a major manufacturing expansion in Clinton. In early 2022, 3M announced a US$470m follow-up investment to scale the facility. 

US Senator Bill Hagerty adds: “We want to welcome 3M to Tennessee and thank the company for its investment and the new jobs that will be created in Clinton,

“Here in Tennessee, we work to create a business-friendly environment that attracts new companies to the state while helping them grow and succeed, and today’s announcement brings us one step closer toward our goal of becoming the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs.”