KnightMotives Automotive Case Study

KnightMotives Automotive -- Case Study

Professional Cloud Architect Exam Guide v6.1 � Reconstructed reference copy

Company Overview

KnightMotives is a car manufacturer specializing in autonomous, self-driving vehicles, including Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), hybrids, and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. While KnightMotives has made strides with the in-vehicle experience in their BEV fleet, the hybrid and ICE vehicles have yet to implement these new systems and are viewed poorly by critics and drivers. The lack of modern in-vehicle technology in hybrid and ICE vehicles has resulted in declining sales and customer satisfaction. KnightMotives wants to modernize the consumer experience across all vehicles within five years. Artificial Intelligence offers a unique opportunity to revolutionize the in-vehicle experience, as well as the shopping, buying, and service/maintenance experience. Investment in this new technology will require a shift in financial priorities on a global scale. KnightMotives also wants to improve their online ordering system, which is unreliable. Systems for customers to build their vehicle online for acquisition through a dealer are not delivering the data or reliability that dealers need, causing a strain in the relationship between KnightMotives and dealers. Service technicians and sales staff need better tooling to enhance dealer successes, including built-to-order vehicles.

Solution Concept

KnightMotives wants to shift from manufacturing cars to creating a complete and compelling "automotive experience." Their strategy prioritizes delivering a consistent experience across all models, developing AI-powered features, generating new revenue from data monetization, adopting a digital focus to differentiate their brand from competitors, and developing better tools for mechanics and salespeople.

Existing Technical Environment

KnightMotives's IT is largely on-premises with some applications on major cloud platforms. Their supply chain runs on an outdated mainframe, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is also outdated, making new promotions and dealer discounts difficult to implement. Dealers have no budget for new equipment. There is fragmentation across vehicles with multiple code bases, and significant technical debt from supporting backwards compatibility. Network connectivity to manufacturing plants and vehicle connectivity in rural areas are challenges.

Business Requirements

� Foster a personalized relationship with the driver and deliver a cohesive experience across
all models.
� Create a better build-to-order model to reduce time on the lot and provide transparency for
both dealers and customers.
� Monetize corporate data to finance new technology investments, as the current AI
infrastructure is obsolete and corporate data remains siloed.
� Security is a paramount concern due to past data breaches. Adherence to European
Union (EU) data protection regulations, especially for emerging autonomous platforms, is
critical.
� Make significant investments in fully autonomous driving capabilities, with initial
implementation targeting regions with favorable regulatory environments.
� Prioritize employee upskilling, attract top-tier talent, and foster better communication
between business and technical teams.

Technical Requirements

� Modernizing the in-vehicle experience: develop a consistent UX that seamlessly
integrates AI-powered features across all models; update in-vehicle hardware and
software in legacy models to support new UX features and AI capabilities; ensure reliable
network connectivity, especially in rural areas, to support real-time AI features and data
transmission.
� Network upgrades: support increased data traffic and improve connectivity between
plants and headquarters.
� IT infrastructure modernization: adopt a hybrid cloud strategy to leverage the benefits of
both on-premises and cloud infrastructure, and gradually modernize or replace legacy
systems to improve efficiency and agility.
� Autonomous vehicle development and testing: invest in cutting-edge AI and ML
technologies, build a robust simulation environment, and ensure compliance with evolving
regulations related to autonomous vehicles.
� Data monetization and insights: implement a robust data management platform, strict
data security and privacy measures, and a scalable AI/ML infrastructure.
� Increased focus on security and risk management: implement a comprehensive
security framework to protect against cyber threats and data breaches, develop an incident
response plan, and provide security awareness training to employees.
� Delightful experience for dealers and customers: improve the online build-to-order
system; develop modern dealer tools to streamline sales, service, and inventory
management; and implement a comprehensive CRM system to track customer
interactions, personalize experiences, and improve customer satisfaction.

Executive Statement

"KnightMotives is committed to enhancing safety and saving lives by leveraging an extensive body of data -- encompassing driving, road conditions, behavioral studies, and crash safety statistics -- to create compelling digital experiences for drivers. Our AI consistently outperforms national safety statistics, ensuring the unique and coveted KnightMotives experience is aligned across all our vehicle models." -- Michael Knight, KnightMotives CEO