Case
A modular platform reduces supplier dependency.
Marcopolo is a global leader in bus bodies and a market leader in Brazil, with an increased focus on technical independence, electrification, and scalable platforms.
ClientMarcopolo S.A.
IndustryAutomotive
ServicesHardware & Mechanics
Background
Within Marcopolo’s Volare operations, a need was identified to reduce dependence on external chassis suppliers and create better conditions for long-term development and control. As part of this strategy, the investment in in-house product development was strengthened.
Challenge
A large portion of the volumes relied on an external chassis from a supplier in financial difficulty, which created delivery risks in a business-critical segment. At the same time, this dependency limited the ability to control architecture, integration, and further development.
The challenge was to ensure continuity while also increasing technical ownership. The opportunity lay in developing an in-house platform that reduces risk and enables future innovation and electrification.
Technical leadership in a complex reality.
Knightec Group established a long-term partnership to develop the new RCX chassis platform, with a focus on robust architecture, structure, and scalability.
Knightec Group contributed in vehicle architecture, structural analysis, system integration, as well as product structure and documentation. By working within Marcopolo’s systems and processes, faster decisions and a more integrated way of working were enabled.
The other team consolidated customer escalations and coordinated priorities across functions, providing better visibility and a more cohesive execution. In parallel, ways of working, roles, and customer communication were improved.
Delivered Value
The result was the RCX platform, now in production and used in several vehicles within Volare. The platform has strengthened technical independence and improved control over cost, quality, and future development. The collaboration has also contributed to more integrated ways of working, where Knightec Group acts as a true strategic partner.
Meet the team behind
The start of a long-term partnership.
Behind RCX is a team of 16 specialists who, in a short time, became a natural part of Marcopolo’s day-to-day operations. Through shared ownership and close collaboration, not only was a new platform created—but also a new way of working and a strengthened internal capability.
What drives the team forward is the opportunity to contribute to something that has a tangible business impact and long-term significance for the customer.
It is in the interplay between people, competence, and trust that the delivery gains its strength—and that makes it possible to support the customer’s core business even as demands continue to grow.
