Fisker Pear EV SUV is supposed to seat 6 and start under $30,000.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by redpoint5

Engine building is arguably what comprises an automotive company.

Yet outsourcing used to be a thing, and still is for some small-scale automakers catering to certain segments. Odd enough, the long-gone AMC resorted to a Chevrolet engine in South Africa to meet local content regulations, and Toyota even used Mercedes-Benz engines in Brazil.

[redpoint5]

I almost think outsourcing the drivetrain is a recipe for failure. That's the secret sauce; not bending metal into a slightly different shape than other companies.

Funny that Delorean called his company the Delorean Motor Company when that was the part they outsourced. Should have been called the Delorean Shell Company.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by redpoint5

I almost think outsourcing the drivetrain is a recipe for failure. That's the secret sauce; not bending metal into a slightly different shape than other companies.

It used to work quite well for most truck makers, and it may become relevant once again for emissions compliance. Nowadays even Isuzu outsources Cummins engines...

[freebeard]

(auto)(mobile)

The motor is important, of course; but suspension and steering are what make it happen.

Further down the list are the 'Paris dressmakers' and, it turns out dealer and service networks, and advertising.

GM is whittled down to a financing entity, GMAC.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by freebeard

The motor is important, of course; but suspension and steering are what make it happen

Suspension, steering, brakes, tires, the list goes on...