Ericsson and Porsche have entered into a research partnership to leverage the power of 5G to enhance production capabilities at Porsche’s manufacturing facility in Leipzig, Germany.
This trial project is the first deployment of a private 5G network at a Porsche production complex. It is the start of a new remote production era for the automotive company.
Ericsson’s secure 5G standalone (SA) network operates over a private frequency spectrum, providing high-speed wireless connectivity, ultra-low latency and high data-handling capabilities.
“As we transition to the factory of tomorrow, Porsche production is undergoing a comprehensive digital transformation. In the process, we are guided by our vision: smart, lean and green. 5G technology is one of the key elements laying the groundwork for our Smart Factory”, says Albrecht Reimold, member of the executive board for production and logistics at Porsche AG.
The technology cell of Porsche’s Macan body shop will implement the dedicated 5G network as part of the pilot project. This will allow for real-time robotics control without using cables. The 5G network also allows the transmission of heavy data between on-site machines, production workers and vehicles through real-time signal transmission.
Gerd Rupp, chairman of the executive board at Porsche Leipzig, noted, “The 5G test area offers an excellent opportunity to test use cases in a production context and is an important step forward in our production of the future.”
Ericsson noted in a statement that the updated automation capabilities will significantly impact production at Porsche. Benefits include increased worker safety, faster production times, reduced costs and increased quality.
Asa Tamsons, head of business area technologies and new Businesses at Ericsson, said, “Ericsson is proud to work with leading companies like Porsche in their smart factories and provide them with our world leading 5G and Private Network products. 5G connectivity can enable the next step in digital transformation in manufacturing, making it more efficient and effective. Ericsson’s Private Networks empower greater productivity, safety and flexibility across a variety of industries from manufacturing, processing, mining, offshore, and beyond.”
Photo: Ericsson 