This China-focused episode was born when pulling on the red thread connecting four prior episodes with elements of that nation’s automotive rise. This time, host John Stech stitches together the story of China’s rise in the automotive industry from the humble beginning to the current achievement of largest automotive market and biggest net exporter of cars using the words of experts that have worked there. .

Drawing on insights previously shared by Dr. Susanne Lehmann (Volkswagen Malaysia), Dr. Helmut Grösser (Mercedes-Benz), Benny Oeyen (Automobility, previously GM Shanghai), and Gianfranco Pizzuto, CEO Automobili Estrema, the individual elements of their stories were woven together into a flowing tale.

It begins with an auto industry that was in an infant stage, starved for manufacturing, logistics, and technology knowledge. It follows through to explore how traditional automakers were forced to adapt their products for Chinese consumers. The tale takes a twist when the alarm was sounded a decade ago that the Chinese automakers would eventually rise up as a threat.

The episode also examines the culture in China and what makes it so able to learn and move quickly in adaptation. Finally, there is a word of advice shared by one of the experts, Gianfranco Pizzuto, one which may surprise some.

There is no question about the rise of China in the automotive industry. This podcast episode just scratches the surface on the many issues and factors that led to this point. However, it is a great starting point to continue learning about the greatest competitor the automotive industry has faced to date.

To learn more about The Auto Ethnographer please visit the website at https://www.auto-ethnographer.com

Dr. Susanne Lehmann. Volkswagen Malaysia  https://www.volkswagen.com.my/

Dr. Helmut Grösser. Mercedes Benz AG   https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/

Benny Oeyen. Automobility Ltd.  https://automobility.io/

Gianfranco Pizzuto. Automobili Estrema  https://fulminea.com/