A new book published in China argues that the country's automotive supply chain is undergoing a fundamental shift, moving from a behind-the-scenes support role to a core driver of innovation in the era of software-defined vehicles. Titled "Building Cars 2.0: The Supply Chain Revolution Under Software-Defined Vehicles," the book compiles interviews with executives from leading global and Chinese parts makers, according to D1EV, an online automotive news outlet.
The publication is the second volume in the "New Auto, New Technology" series, edited by Zhou Xiaoying, CEO and chief editor of Gasgoo, an automotive industry information provider. It features conversations with experts and executives in automotive semiconductors, embedded software, and artificial intelligence, aiming to capture how traditional component manufacturers are adapting to the rapid electrification and digitalization of the auto industry.
From components to systems
The book's fourth chapter, titled "Smart Manufacturing Cornerstone: Deep Cultivators from Components to Systems," profiles companies including Gestamp, A Raymond, Mann+Hummel, Brembo, VAMA, and Midea Welling. These firms represent different facets of the supply chain, from metal forming and fasteners to filtration and braking systems.
Gestamp's Francisco J. Riberas discusses innovation in metal manufacturing, while A Raymond's Fabien Azzi talks about balancing heritage and innovation at a century-old company. Mann+Hummel's Thomas Fischer explains the company's transition from a filtration specialist to an ecosystem partner, and Brembo's Bogdan Bereanda outlines technology paths toward a future with zero accidents. VAMA's Zhou Jian explores how steel can become lighter, stronger, and greener, and Midea Welling's Chen Jintao shares how a home-appliance maker entered the automotive sector and is reshaping global perceptions of Chinese manufacturing.
The book's central thesis is that supply chain companies are evolving from single-product suppliers to providers of system-level solutions, and from mere manufacturing capacity to sources of technological and ecological advantage. The editors argue that this transformation is essential for the next generation of vehicles, which will be defined as much by software and intelligence as by hardware.
"Who can deeply integrate traditional manufacturing with smart technology? Who can turn materials, processes, and system capabilities into core competitiveness for next-generation vehicles? Who can build long-term technological barriers amid global supply chain restructuring?" the book asks, framing these as the key questions for the industry.
The publication comes at a time when China's EV market is intensely competitive, with automakers and suppliers alike racing to innovate. The book aims to document the current state of the industry and offer insights into how supply chain players can secure their positions in the evolving landscape.
According to D1EV, the book is available for purchase in China. The outlet also noted that the content was originally produced by Gasgoo and republished by D1EV to spread information, with a disclaimer that the views expressed do not necessarily represent D1EV's own stance.
