The role of R&D in the Semi-Periphery of the Automotive Global Value Chain

Résumé:

The global automotive industry operates within a complex structure of value chains, where countries can be classified into three distinct categories: Core, Semi-Periphery, and Periphery. Core countries dominate through ownership of lead firms and technological capacity, while peripheral nations thrive on low-cost labor. Semi-Peripheral countries, however, occupy an ambiguous middle ground. Despite their historical significance, they are marked by declining production volumes and ambiguous technological capacity. This study aims to explore the unique position of Semi-Peripheral countries within the global automotive value chain (GVC), focusing on their role in research and development (R&D) and the broader implications for their technological and industrial trajectories.
Our research integrates a multifaceted approach, combining patent data analysis along with interviews with senior policy makers and top managers from multinational automakers. This dual methodology allows for the examination of both quantitative trends and qualitative insights into the dynamics of R&D localization and technological development. Consequently, it enhances our understanding of the decision-making processes involved in the geographical placement of R&D activities.
Initial findings reveal that the acquisition of automakers by foreign entities has not necessarily diminished the technological capacity of Semi-Peripheral nations, as evidenced by stable or growing absolute patent outputs. However, their share of global automotive patents has declined due to the rapid rise of China and other emerging players. This raises critical questions: Are R&D activities more resilient and geographically "sticky" compared to manufacturing? Do multinational automakers acquire these countries' R&D centers to leverage existing expertise? If so, could these nations be considered hubs for high-value-added activities within the GVC, despite their downgraded status?
Our study challenges the rigidity of the traditional Core-Semi-Periphery taxonomy, proposing a more nuanced framework that accounts for variations within the Semi-Periphery. We explore whether differing origins, such as the absence of global lead firm headquarters or reliance on foreign automakers, influence the trajectories of these countries. Furthermore, we assess whether their continued participation in R&D activities indicates a potential for re-emergence as centers of innovation or confines them to a supporting role in the automotive GVC.
This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of Semi-Peripheral countries in the global automotive industry. It highlights the complexity of innovation dynamics, offering new perspectives on how these nations navigate the challenges of technological development and industrial competitiveness in an increasingly globalized context.