Are you in the body builder industry? Have you ever thought about how to ensure your profitability for the future and at the same time meet today's challenges? You are not alone! How to meet unique customer needs, the technical knowledge required for complex modifications, and the never-ending quest to cost balance efficiency, safety regulations, and keeping sustainability a top priority.
To understand and get insights how to keep up in this fast changing time in a economical and sustainable way we talked to Marius Göbel. He is a fifth-generation representative of a family-owned business that builds swap bodies systems, trailers and containers in Germany . We had a chat about his view on the upcoming opportunities and challenges as a Product manager at B. Göbel & Sohn GmbH Vehicle and body construction. How do they're adapting their business today and for the future?
The Role of a Bodybuilder
Companies that use commercial vehicles needs special vehicle bodies to transport their cargo. For example. Vans and trucks have been rebuilt by adding special vehicle bodies and components. This can include constructions for swap bodies, installation of refrigeration systems, lifting platforms, tail lifts or other tailor-made equipment. Body builders carry out these specialized adaptations to vehicles. Essentially, standardized vehicles are used and adapted to the special needs and requirements of the customers. Depending on the type of vehicle and the customer's requirements, there is a wide range of designs. The adaptations are often technically demanding and require close cooperation with customers, partners, and the relevant authorities to ensure that the vehicles are safe and functional. The aim is to meet individual customer requirements and to ensure that the vehicle bodies/conversions comply with applicable laws and regulations.
A Legacy of Adaptation
Marius's family business started as an ironsmith workshop in the hands of his great-grandfather. Over the generations, the company has adapted to changing market demands. "Adaptability is a core value for us, and it's crucial for us to be able to handle new challenges like electrification and hydrogen fuel cell technology." His great grandfather started as a classical ironsmith and every generation of the company had to shift and adapt to a new relevant field in the business.
Customer Focused Collaboration
In Marius's opinion, collaboration between bodybuilders, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and suppliers is key to survive as a company. This collaboration is also crucial for designing and building trucks that meet customer needs and comply with regulations. Open communication and fast feedback loops are essential for efficient collaboration in today's fast-paced environment.
“Collaboration between bodybuilders, OEMs, and suppliers is essential for us to be able to design and build trucks that meet customer needs and comply with regulations.”
Responsible way of Shaping the Future
The world is increasingly focused on sustainability, and that includes the commercial vehicle industry. So how do B. Göbel & Sohn GmbH stay up-to-date to meet the upcoming regulations, trends, demands and overcome the challenges that is in front of commercial vehicle industry?
- I think it's pretty common, what is important for us and our society in the future, is the global warming. We can feel the effects every year with big floodings or people starving because they cannot make proper agriculture. This is one of the biggest topics what our generation has to somehow manage.
The trucking industry, a significant contributor to global CO2 emissions, is undergoing a period of exciting transformation. The emergence of sustainable solutions like electric and hydrogen trucks, alongside advancements in biofuels and logistics optimization, paints a promising picture for the future of transportation. This shift towards sustainability isn't just an environmental concern, it's a business imperative. As societal trends prioritize eco-friendly practices, businesses must adapt. Collaboration with major manufacturers facing similar pressures from governments can provide valuable insights and pave the way for a more sustainable future for the entire industry.
“And with this knowledge and as a company, especially in the transport sector, we should take our responsibility.”
A Challenge and Opportunity for Bodybuilders
The fight against global warming and the push for a more sustainable future are driving innovation across industries. One exciting development is the rise of electric trucks. But as with any major shift, there are challenges to overcome. Electric trucks present a unique obstacle: battery placement.
Larger batteries are crucial for extended range in electric trucks. However, this often comes at the expense of space typically used for body customization. So once again Marius highlights the importance of close collaboration between truck manufacturers and bodybuilders to ensure future electric trucks can accommodate various body configurations.
Early Electric Adopters
While some large companies are at the forefront of adopting electric trucks, Marius finds it interesting that smaller, family-owned businesses are also showing interest. These businesses are motivated by a desire to be environmental leaders and achieve CO2-free deliveries.
While electric trucks are still a small portion of Göbel’s business, Marius observes a steady annual increase. The next five years will be crucial in seeing how electric truck adoption and infrastructure development progress.
Time is money
Online meetings and available digital files as drawings and data packages enable faster and more efficient communication. Marius point out that communication for thier buisness has undergone a dramatic shift since his father's day. Back then, it was simple phone calls with suppliers and limited access to information. The post-COVID standard for Göbel is to collaborate in real-time with their suppliers to facilitate quicker project updates and transparent problem-solving. This is something that Marius knows build trust, long term relations and give the customer confidence in the final product.
Today, everything is technical, available drawings and data packages. This opens up for transparent communication and collaboration. This not only streamlines the process but also allows Göbel to share detailed information with customers. “Our goal is always that when the customer asks us in a process that at the end he gets a really, really good product where he is happy about it and is safe, that he's not violating any regulations on the streets.” says Marius.
Marius 5 take aways on how to achieve a balance between efficiency, safety, and sustainability in today's rapidly changing market
- Collaboration is Essential: Strong partnerships with OEMs, suppliers, and customers are key to overcoming challenges and create opportunities.
- Customer Centric Focus: Providing safe, high-quality, and compliant solutions that meet customer needs should be the ultimate goal.
- Continuous Learning: Bodybuilders need to adapt to new, sustainable, and innovative solutions to help their customers find the optimal solution for their needs.
- Adaptability is Key: The ability to find solutions that embrace new technologies like electric and hydrogen vehicles is crucial for future success.
- Communication Drives Efficiency: Fostering open communication streamlines collaboration.
