SUPPLIER EYE

For years, analysts have pondered the impact of the migration of North American light vehicle production from its original hub in the U.S. Midwest to locations in the Southeast and Mexico. Electrification is adding to that impact. The epicenter shift of vehicle output has ramifications on supplier locations, relative logistics and labor availability, as well as economic development considerations.

Geography matters more than ever. With recent logistics issues such as port strikes, lack of trucking capacity and natural disasters tripping up supply lines, OEMs are trying to tighten the circle to reduce risk and cost.