VW hosts hackathon to develop digital supply chain

German vehicle maker Volkswagen (VW) held a hackathon to develop computer-based systems to make it easier to monitor compliance with human rights and environmental protection along complex supply chains. Goods and services involved can pass through up to nine stages in various countries in Latin America, Asia and Africa, according to the company. “Sustainability and supply chain transparency are inextricably linked. Digitisation offers completely new opportunities here,” said Marco Philippi, head of corporate procurement strategy at VW. “The hackathon brings both worlds, sustainability and digitisation, together.” The carmaker considers the transition to e-mobility as posing technological and infrastructural challenges.