Enabling Smart Manufacturing for a Leading UK Automotive Manufacturer

The Opportunity

A major UK automotive manufacturer was preparing one of its key production sites in the North West for the next generation of electric vehicles. To support this shift, the facility required a large-scale upgrade to its network and power infrastructure, starting with its Trim & Final assembly area.

Central to this transformation was the rollout of a new Manufacturing Execution System (MES) - a digital platform designed to improve visibility and control across the production line. The challenge was significant: how to deliver such a complex infrastructure project within a live, fast-paced manufacturing environment, without disrupting daily operations.
 

The Solution

adi Automotive Services was appointed to deliver the programme and successfully secured all three phases of the project. The work involved the full installation of network and power systems across the production facility to support the MES rollout.

To minimise disruption, all work was carried out overnight and during weekends, with careful coordination required to move and protect vehicles and equipment before each shift, and ensure everything was reinstated by the 6am production restart.

What did we deliver?

• 5,000+ network cables installed
• 1,900+ power sockets added
• 284 km of Cat6 cabling
• 38 km of fibre optic cabling
• Over 50 communication cabinets
• 20+ km of cable containment (trunking and conduit)

Due to the project's success, adi was awarded additional MES-related work across Body in white, logistics, and goods in/out areas, including:

• Wi-Fi infrastructure across the plant
• Digital information screens for real-time updates

adi also delivered a new Public Address (PA) system to broadcast internal communications and radio messaging throughout the production areas - now being rolled out across the whole organisation.

The Outcome

The full infrastructure upgrade was delivered on time, with zero disruption to production, despite the complexities of working in a live manufacturing environment.

• The site now benefits from enhanced connectivity, real-time production monitoring, and modernised internal communications.
• The MES platform is fully supported by robust, high-specification cabling and power infrastructure.
• adi Automotive Services has proven its ability to manage complex, multi-phase projects at scale in mission-critical environments.

This successful delivery has positioned the site to lead the way in smart, electric vehicle production, with a digital-first approach to modern manufacturing.