Originally published on 3M News Center. The automotive industry is under pressure from every direction. Electrification, software-defined vehicle architecture, lightweighting, manufacturing transformation, repair and recycling are not isolated challenges. They are interconnected demands that automakers and suppliers are being asked to solve simultaneously, and faster than ever before. 3M’s new digital platform, “The Next Gear,” is designed to help. The interactive online experience brings together 3M science, technologies and materials in one place, allowing customers to explore how 3M supports the automotive industry as it works to build lighter, smarter, and more efficient vehicles. Solving connected challenges across the vehicle lifecycle “The automotive industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation — one that touches every part of the mobility ecosystem, from manufacturers and suppliers to infrastructure,” said Wendy Bauer, group president of 3M Transportation and Electronics Business Group. “As electrification, lightweighting, software-defined vehicles, advanced manufacturing and next-generation in-cabin experiences reshape mobility, the need for material innovation has never been greater. 3M brings deep expertise across automotive, electronics, manufacturing and advanced materials to help customers solve complex challenges, accelerate development and bring next-generation mobility solutions to market faster. ‘The Next Gear’ provides a comprehensive look at 3M solutions across the mobility ecosystem and demonstrates how we help customers move faster toward what’s ahead.” The platform highlights the critical role that 3M solutions can play at every stage of the automotive lifecycle, focusing on engineering and design, manufacturing, on-road performance, personalization, and repair and end-of-life applications. A closer look at automotive innovation “The Next Gear” features multiple 3M solutions for lighter-weight vehicle design, including materials that reduce weight while supporting durability and performance, as well as noise, vibration and harshness solutions that improve comfort and design flexibility. Manufacturing efficiency, quality and ergonomics get equal attention. Among the spotlighted technologies is the 3M Finesse-it