Automotive industry leadership

Hexagon’s industry content specialist Ashley Bray recently sat down with Ignazio Dentici, Vice President for Automotive for Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division. The pair dived into Dentici’s role at Hexagon, offering insights into how the company is adapting and leading the way in an automotive industry that is undergoing significant transformation.

From enabling automation in manufacturing to non-destructive testing capabilities for automotive batteries, Dentici sheds light on how Hexagon seizes opportunities amidst industry challenges. He also explores the relationship between Hexagon and its customers, the company’s strategic focus and its ambition to delve further into areas like electrification and battery development. As the automotive industry races alongside technology, Hexagon is capturing that pace and looking forward to an innovative future.

Ashley Bray: Ignazio, what does it mean to be VP for Automotive at Hexagon?

Ignazio Dentici: In essence, being VP for Hexagon involves witnessing the transformation of the company to connect more closely with our customers. In the automotive sector, this is significant as the industry is undergoing arguably the biggest transformation in its history. This is a fantastic time to be VP for Automotive; we have an incredible opportunity to support customers during this transformation.

 

AB: Where do you get these insights from? How do you gauge what is needed?

ID: I’ve been passionate about automotive since my youth. This led me to study engineering associated with the automotive sector. I then spent over 15 years in the industry working for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). I joined Hexagon two years ago, and my goal now is to bring my expertise and insights from my extensive sector experience into the company. The automotive industry races alongside technology, so there is always a need for innovation to stay competitive. Our customers need sustainability—both environmental and financial—combined with new technologies, which answer the demands for innovation and sustainability.

 

AB: Can we have some examples of new advancements in the industry that Hexagon has had a hand in?

ID: One key area is automation in manufacturing, where new technologies are allowing flexible offline and online inspection. This assists our customers in adapting to market uncertainties and manufacturing needs. Furthermore, our software’s capabilities or CT inspection, coupled with volume graphics, is a major breakthrough. It enables non-destructive testing of parts such as automotive batteries, a technology totally unknown in the automotive industry 5-10 years ago.

 

AB: Could you speak about Hexagon’s industry footprint and the direction we’re headed?

ID: Today, Hexagon Automotive has impact over 95% of the automotive industry. Our substantial footprint gives us insight into the industry’s main issues and allows us to act as a partner when they face challenges. Now, our task is to develop and provide the new generation of technologies to support customer growth and to offer solutions to entire process issues.

 

AB: How does Hexagon’s role differ from consultants or integrators?

D: We supply the tools and solve the actual issues. We do offer consultancy in certain areas and we can lead consultancy partnerships. Regarding system integration, 
our customers are looking for a partner that takes on the responsibility of system integration—a role we’re prepared for.

 

AB: Finally, can you share the main short-term priorities you’re focusing on?

ID: My main priority is to leverage Hexagon capabilities as well as our partnerships to support customers and offer them comprehensive solutions to drive transformation in the key Automotive industry areas.

 

AB: We do harbour big ambitions, don’t we?

ID: Indeed we do, and we must.

 

AB: Thank you for your time, Ignazio. It’s always illuminating to gain insights about our present position, future direction and the ways to get there.