The COVID-19 pandemic has left many traces behind it, including a global crisis in thesupply chain, which is causing shortages and exceptional lead times. The electric transportation sector is not spared: sourcing components of all kinds is giving manufacturers headaches. In this article, we will present the best strategies to minimize the supply chain impacts on electric vehicle production.
Rely on a diversified network of suppliers
Manufacturers must be able to rely on a well-stocked portfolio of suppliers from different backgrounds, giving them leeway in their supply chain. Companies must no longer depend on a single source of supply. In this context, it is all the more important to understand our suppliers’ supply chains: even if we have multiple suppliers for the same purchasing category, we can sometimes find that the common supply risk lies with our suppliers’ suppliers.
Increase inventory at the expense ofjust-in-time
Many companies have long operated injust-in-time, a trendy concept that is efficient and cost-effective… until now. It is impossible to survive in the current context by operating on real-time needs alone. It is important to have an adequate safety stock in order to continue operating in the current environment. Often, this means increasing storage space, which allows for more suitable inventory management.
Review your designs and choose local materials and manufacturing processes
At this stage, put your design team to work: you need to reduce the use of material that is scarce and/or has long lead times and rely on equivalent materials that are readily available through a network of local suppliers. Wherever possible, and for certain products, it is better to adopt local sourcing strategies to minimize delays. Many qualified suppliers operate within the electric and smart transport industry in Quebec and offer innovative and reliable solutions: build yourself a strong network of local suppliers!
Reduce your product offering
Streamlining your product offering for the duration of shortages can help you minimize risks to your operations. At this stage, it is imperative to manage customer expectations by ensuring you offer alternative solutions. Clear and constant communication with your operations is essential to avoid surprises and turbulence in production. Adjust your production rates taking into account the planning for diminishing materials.
The COVID-19 crisis highlighted the weaknesses of many companies’ supply chains during global disruptions. Fortunately, several strategies and solutions exist to help you optimize yoursupply chain.If you need support to face the challenges related to your supply chain, contact the Merkur experts!
About our companies
MERKURis a consulting firm founded in 1994. It specializes in serving manufacturing companies in Quebec and beyond. The company stands out greatly for the depth of its offerings and its knowledge of small, medium and large manufacturing companies. We are proud to have contributed to Quebec’s innovation and productivity for more than 25 years!
KHROME PRODUIT TRANSPORTis a manufacturing integrator located in Drummondville specializing in the design and manufacture of train car interiors and exteriors. Its strength comes from its large engineering capacity and manufacturing agility. Among its client portfolio are major contractors such as Alstom, Bombardier Transport and Kawasaki Rail Car.
SYNKROis middleware developed by Merkur and designed especially for high-performance manufacturers. It collects, classifies, and then distributes the right data to the right recipients in real time and at the right moment. Synkro gives you a real view of your operations. Synkro is the software solution that finally connects your shop floor and your offices!
