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capabilities – capabilities that include everything from more complex glass bends to switchable and photovoltaic roof panel glass, and beyond. These capabilities will put us ahead of the competition and on the forefront of glass technologies for the next generation of vehicles.”
Massimo builds on this point:“ On the installation side, we have multiple teams from different countries working together to commission a fully automated line, using best in class technology to prepare, bend, and laminate our products. We are doing this on an accelerated timeline, and our focus is on ensuring that development of new models proceeds in lockstep with our customers’ schedules.”
The 1.5-million-square-foot Nashville facility is the only fully vertically integrated manufacturing operation under one roof of its kind in the US. Using a float line, it transforms sand and other raw materials into glass, which is then processed into finished windshields, roofs, or backlights.“ We are introducing true end to end manufacturing, supported by highly advanced technology, at the Nashville location. It is a special investment for Carlex and for the region,” Ramzi says.
Carlex maintains a rigorous review process through its supplier quality and program management teams.“ How we evaluate supply partners is crucial,” explains Ramzi.“ We look closely at their manufacturing, engineering, and supply capabilities, as well as their resiliency as a provider. We source our materials primarily within the markets where we manufacture – in this case, the United States. We work with local partners on the manufacturing side, while managing a global network when it comes to building and installing equipment. Our engineering team has developed an integrated process for making, cutting, moving, polishing, tempering, and bending glass. It is complex, highly specialized equipment – not something you can simply purchase off the shelf.”
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