Watch: Collaboration, speed and people-first digitalisation define global manufacturing transformation

At this year’s Automotive Manufacturing North America (AMNA) 2025 conference in Dearborn, industry leaders explored how manufacturers can accelerate transformation while maintaining operational resilience. Among them was Pascal Nagel, editor-in-chief of Automotive IT, Automobil Produktion and Automobil Elektronik, publications from Ultima Media’s sister group in Germany, who reflected on shared priorities shaping manufacturing across Europe and North America.

In conversation with Christopher Ludwig, Nagel noted that the tone of industry discussion has shifted.  

“Manufacturers are realising that speed and competitiveness must be achieved collectively, not in isolation.”

Nagel observed that while digital tools and automation are advancing rapidly, the real transformation lies in how people use technology. “Digital operations are not about technology,” he said. “They’re about people using technology.” This people-first approach, he argued, is critical for an industry long defined by product- and process-centric engineering mindsets.

Breaking down organisational silos is another priority. Cross-functional alignment between engineering, IT and production remains essential to achieve faster, more flexible manufacturing. “Companies must practise what they preach,” he added. “Transformation has to happen not just on stage, but every day on the shopfloor.”

Nagel also highlighted AI’s democratising potential, bringing digital capabilities to everyone in the factory, not just data specialists. From computer vision in quality control to predictive maintenance, the opportunity lies in giving operators the tools to act on insights in real time.

His message mirrored a consistent theme at AMNA 2025: that transformation is not purely technological, but cultural. As carmakers and suppliers navigate new powertrain strategies, automation systems and digital infrastructures, the next stage of progress will depend on collaboration, empowerment and shared responsibility across the value chain.