Mazda and Yazaki Corporation announced that they had introduced a production system for the new CX-5 that reduces the number of wire-harness types by approximately 80% compared with the previous model. Efforts are under way to improve supply between domestic plants, based on local production and automation.
Mazda and Yazaki Corporation adopted a new production system for the new CX-5 that reduces the number of wire-harness types by approximately 80% compared with the previous model. By optimising the vehicle as a whole, the companies aim to reduce the complexity of parts combinations and processes and establish a competitive domestic production system.
In early 2022, the company began joint development activities to promote “local production,” in which finished products are produced near vehicle assembly plants, together with automation. By reviewing the design and manufacturing processes for wire harnesses as an integrated operation, it aims to reduce the proportion of manual work, stabilise quality and improve productivity.
A system has been established under which Yazaki Corporation procures the component materials, completes the products at an affiliated plant in Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and delivers them to Mazda’s plants in Hiroshima and Yamaguchi prefectures. The companies are improving and strengthening the efficiency of the entire supply chain so that domestic production can respond flexibly to fluctuations in demand and changes in the external environment.
Mazda’s executive officer and CSCO explained that the initiative gives concrete form to the company’s transformation of its supply-chain structure and Monozukuri Innovation 2.0. The two companies plan to roll out the knowledge gained to wire harnesses for future new models in stages.