Mack Trucks has begun using sophisticated software which allows it to develop products concurrently with its parent, Renault V.I. in France.

The software, supplied by Tecnomatix, will enable Mack and Renault to optimize the planning and assembly processes on both sides of the Atlantic while linking departments internally at Mack. The virtual manufacturing model allows Mack to assess the value of making new products, evaluate the assembly processes, and make any necessary design changes before making any capital investments. The ultimate goals are to optimize manufacturing performance, expedite project deployment and minimize production costs.
"Truck manufacturers are realizing the need of digital mock-ups and are benefitting from reduced production cost of building complex, physical prototpyes," said Tecnomatix President and CEO Harel Beit-On. The company, headquartered in Herzliya, Israel, is a longtime supplier to Renault.