The auto industry and its future
Posted by John Ester
on Feb 19, 2013
Tom Crumm, author of "What's Good for GM," educated us on automobile manufacturing in the 21st century.
An industrial engineer with many years in the auto industry--both as an employee and as a consultant--Tom shared the highlights of his book's analysis of the industry. He underscored three areas he believes critical to establishing efficient and competitive auto-making:
- A balanced business model that matches production with the rate of selling inventory.
- Economics--the establishment of fair exchange rates, particularly with China.
- Recognition that the traditional assembly line is obsolete.
In a presentation that included many relevant anecdotes and photos from his book, Tom left no doubt as to his expertise in the area. He believes that there is an opportunity for an entrepreneur with a new business model, noting that Henry Ford succeeded after 142 others failed.