The automotive industry relies on one of the most complex logistical networks in the world. A single modern vehicle is composed of tens of thousands of individual components, all of which must arrive at the assembly line in perfect sequence and timing. This intricate journey, known as the automotive supply chain, starts deep in the earth and finishes on the dealership floor. Tracing this process reveals a highly coordinated system, built on layers of dependency, that transforms basic resources into sophisticated machines.

Tier Zero: The Foundation of Raw Materials

The foundation of every car begins with raw materials sourced from around the globe. This Tier Zero level includes vast quantities of steel and aluminum for the body and chassis, plastics and rubber for the interior and tires, and critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare-earth magnets essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and electronic components.

These materials … Continue reading >>>