Survey research on the application of modularity in the automotive industry in Brazil

Author(s)

José Antonio Carnevalli ^[1] ; Paulo Augusto Cauchick Miguel ^[2] ; Mario Sergio Salerno ^[3]

Affiliation

^[1] USP. Escola Politécnica - Brasil

^[2] USP. Escola Politécnica - Brasil

^[3] USP. Escola Politécnica - Brasil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Production; v. 23, n. 2, p. 329-344, 2012-06-14.

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to identify automotive sector companies that use modular strategies and analyze aspects of its use. To this end, a survey research was carried out though a questionnaire sent to about 350 companies in the sector, with a response rate of nearly 14%. Results showed that most companies adopt the modularity strategy and have some experience in its use. Concerning the difficulties experienced, the major problems faced by assemblers are related to finding capable suppliers in order to use the strategy. With regard to suppliers, the difficulties are related to fulfilling automotive assemblers' new demands to modular design and manufacturing. Regarding automotive assemblers, the main benefit of adopting modularity is linked to the outsourcing of some activities to suppliers, transferring fixed costs to them. Concerning suppliers, the main benefit is the partnership increase with customers, such as exclusive supply and the development of new organizational competencies. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 07/02877-6 - A survey on modular design adoption in companies of automotive sector aiming at identifying practices of value-added activities transfer in new product development
• Grantee: Paulo Augusto Cauchick Miguel
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 08/02695-8 - Proposal of a field research on the adoption of modularity in companies in the automotive sector aiming at investigating aspects of its application
• Grantee: José Antonio Carnevalli
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral