Tata connects JLR with global digital architecture

Tata Communications is connecting 128 global sites belonging to British car maker Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) with cloud-first, software defined network capability.

Tata will deploy a digital architecture enabling JLR to enhance vehicle build quality through real-time data diagnosis from production lines. The network capability will power AI adoption providing predictive risk management to reduce disruption to manufacturing.

JLR, a subsidiary of Tata Motors, wants to future-proof its digital transformation and pave the way for Industry 4.0 and analytics.

The partnership will power the production of JLR’s vehicles and provide the connectivity foundation for the next phase of digital transformation for the organisation.

Tata Communications will deploy its cloud-first, software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) technology, connecting all JLR’s 128 sites worldwide. This global connected capability between JLR’s global HQ and its plants, warehouses, sales centres, data centres and cloud services should boost supply chain efficiency and security.

The transformation will enable JLR to bring in AI-powered and real-time data capturing, monitoring and analysis to improve production line performance. Through predictive risk management controls, the car maker will be able to identify potential anomalies more effectively, driving efficiencies while helping assure vehicle quality build.

Further, this partnership will shorten the time to upgrade manufacturing processes, strengthen operational resilience and increase agility to meet production demands. JLR estimates cost savings along with business benefits through scale and security. Tata has already commenced implementation of the network transformation programme and hopes to complete the deployment by 2025.

“This is an exciting phase in the digital transformation of our business, leveraging the technologies and capabilities of Tata Communications that will leapfrog our networks into the future,” said JLR’s group chief information officer Tony Battle. “Moving to SD-WAN means we can use AI powered automation to predict vulnerabilities, proactively intervene, prevent issues and perform more effectively on a global scale across our network. The cutting-edge connectivity platform will help us build the world-class ecosystem we need to deliver modern luxury vehicles and remarkable driving experiences.”

Tata Communications executive vice president Sumeet Walia added: “JLR is a global hallmark for automotive luxury and innovation. As the industry rapidly evolves, it’s an exciting time to further strengthen our relationship and support its digital transformation strategy. Tata Communications is deploying a digital fabric, comprising our agile infrastructure, platforms and managed services, that will help integrate JLR’s systems, workforce, suppliers, stakeholders and customers across the globe, delivering a seamless flow of data to enrich key aspects of the business ecosystem. This partnership will also further our combined commitment to sustainability, as we join forces with JLR to digitally transform the production line of their next-generation vehicles.”

JLR and Tata have been in a long-standing partnership. Tata’s Move platform enables connected car options powering the infotainment and telematics platforms in over 600,000 JLR vehicles with seamless connectivity across more than 100 markets.

JLR (www.jaguarlandrover.com) has two design and engineering sites, three vehicle manufacturing facilities, an engine manufacturing centre, and a battery assembly centre in the UK. It also has vehicle plants in China, Brazil, India, Austria and Slovakia, as well as seven technology hubs across the globe. 

Tata Communications (www.tatacommunications.com) is a digital ecosystem enabler powering the digital economy in more than 190 countries and territories. It enables digital transformation of enterprises globally with connectivity, cloud hosting, security and media services.