Delphi says it is able to react swiftly to the impact of global events such as last year’s earthquake in Japan, although highlights the unpredictability of such fast-changing situations.
“We were impacted [with] the tsunami – we did have suppliers there in Japan but we responded very quickly to mitigate the impact on our customers,” Delphi executive director and chief technologist, Andrew Brown told just-auto at the company’s global headquarters in Troy near Detroit.
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“The key here is being alert to the global trends and dynamics. Who could have predicted a year ago the Egyptian [situation]? Who would have predicted the revolution [would have been] started by a smartphone? One of the things we strive to do is be robust across any scenario – you have to sense the dynamics of regions you serve.”
Brown also highlighted the importance of US supplier association OESA in providing a voice for the crucial auto industry in America.
“OESA works as a forum to see if there are industry solutions that can be brought forward,” he said. “It does not mean we always agree, but if there is a general consensus, we collaborate.
“Without OESA, the supplier community does not have that voice.”
Delphi is closely involved in producing highly technological driver aids and says it is arriving at a point where a significant amount of vehicle accidents can be avoided.
“I won’t say there will never be an accident, but I will say we are getting to a point where we can avoid most of the accidents occurring,” said Brown.
“In time, as we integrate these technologies, the car itself can activate technologies. What about vehicle to vehicle technologies? The question is, will the consumer tolerate big brother coming in saying you will have that technology?”
Brown represents Delphi globally in outside forums concerning innovation and technology, including government and regulatory agencies.
As a member of the US National Academy of Engineering, Brown was also appointed by the National Research Council to serve as chairman of the committee on fuel economy of medium and heavy duty vehicles.
A report from Brown’s committee assessing medium and heavy-duty fuel standards was recently referenced by President Barack Obama.
