Unified requirements for suppliers' production sites of high voltage electric and electronic components - A case study from BMW

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This paper investigates the supplier relationship management (SRM) of BMW in the sector of electromobility and considers the special requirements and standards in high voltage components of the electric and electronic (E-E) industry. Two research questions associated with the standards of the E-E industry and SRM are examined by applying a case study approach. Six plant audits and expert interviews were conducted. The results of this paper support the conclusion that competitive advantage and product quality depend decisively on the relationship of an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to an external provider. In addition, the implementation of quality and production standards requires the support of the management and a knowledge management system that leads to a high exchange of information. The resulting recommendations for action are useful for quality managers to further strengthen the continuous improvement process of SRM and production plants in the E-E industry. © 2020 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.