How to build the next TESLA: A multi-pronged approach
Tesla's disruptive impact on the automotive industry is undeniable. To create a competitor that can not only rival but surpass Tesla, a comprehensive strategy encompassing every stage of car development is necessary. This essay will explore key areas where excellence is crucial: architecture, technology, supply chain, manufacturing quality, chip design, and future-oriented design thinking.
1. Architectural Innovation:
- Beyond the Sedan: Move past traditional car designs and explore innovative vehicle architectures. Think electric pickup trucks, futuristic passenger pods, or even flying cars (within safety and regulatory limitations).
- Lightweight Materials: Utilize advanced materials like carbon fiber and high-strength aluminum to reduce weight and improve efficiency.
- Aerodynamic Optimization: Design a car with a sleek, low-drag coefficient for maximum range and energy savings.
2. Cutting-Edge Technology:
- Next-Gen Battery Technology: Invest in solid-state battery research for increased range, faster charging times, and improved safety.
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Develop a robust ADAS suite that surpasses Tesla's Autopilot, offering features like self-parking, lane-changing assistance, and potentially true autonomous driving capabilities (regulations permitting).
- Connected Car Experience: Create an intuitive and personalized in-car infotainment system with features like voice control, seamless smartphone integration, and over-the-air software updates.
3. Building a Resilient Supply Chain:
- Strategic Partnerships: Forge strategic partnerships with key suppliers of critical components like batteries, motors, and semiconductors. This could involve joint ventures or vertical integration to secure resources and avoid supply chain disruptions.
- Sustainable Practices: Implement sustainable sourcing practices throughout the supply chain, minimizing environmental impact and ensuring ethical labor practices.
- Global Reach: Establish a robust global supply chain with diverse manufacturing locations to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical instability and resource shortages.
4. Manufacturing Excellence:
- Automation and Efficiency: Invest in automation and lean manufacturing principles to streamline production and maintain high quality standards.
- Focus on Quality Control: Implement rigorous quality control measures at every stage of production to eliminate defects and ensure consistent performance.
- Data-Driven Manufacturing: Utilize data analytics to monitor production processes, identify bottlenecks, and continuously improve efficiency and quality.
5. Designing the Future Chip:
- In-House Chip Design: Consider developing custom-designed chips specifically optimized for electric vehicles and autonomous driving functions. This could offer performance advantages over commercially available chips.
- Collaboration with Chipmakers: Partner with leading chipmakers to co-develop cutting-edge chips that cater to the specific needs of electric vehicles.
- Futureproofing Chip Design: Design chips with scalability and future technological advancements in mind, ensuring continued performance as technology evolves.
6. Visionary Design Thinking:
- Sustainable Design: Integrate sustainability into every aspect of car design, from material selection to end-of-life vehicle recycling.
- User-Centric Design: Prioritize user experience by designing intuitive interfaces, comfortable interiors, and innovative features that cater to evolving consumer needs.
- Adaptability and Upgradability: Design vehicles that can be easily adapted and upgraded with new technologies, ensuring the car stays relevant for an extended lifespan.
Building a car that surpasses Tesla is a monumental task. By focusing on these key areas and fostering a culture of continuous innovation, a new competitor can emerge, pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and design, ultimately shaping a more sustainable and exciting future for transportation.
(All views expressed are personal)
Mukesh Sharma is the VP & Region Head at Tech Mahindra Greater China
He is an Indian Institute of Management Bangalore Alumni and ex Maruti Suzuki India Limited. He is an accomplished visionary executive with over 25 years of international experience spanning India, Japan, and Greater China. Adept at orchestrating business transformation and driving strategic initiatives across diverse industries, including Automotive, Aerospace, Industrial, Manufacturing, Hitech and BFSI.
Twitter (X) : Mukesh_delhi
