Six major gaps in China's auto parts industry
The global auto parts industry is highly competitive, with Delphi Corporation leading the market as the top supplier, generating $26.4 billion in sales of automotive components worldwide. In contrast, the 100th largest supplier, Excellence Industrial International Corporation, reported sales of $5.06 billion. This shows that China’s auto parts sector is not far behind globally in terms of revenue, but there are still significant gaps in other critical areas.
In terms of research and development (R&D), the investment required by the auto parts industry should be 1.2 to 1.5 times that of the entire vehicle company. However, in China, this investment is only around 0.3 times or less. As a result, companies struggle to make substantial progress in technology and industrial innovation. On average, Chinese auto parts firms allocate just 1% to 1.5% of their sales revenue to R&D, compared to 3% to 5% in developed countries, and even up to 10% in some cases. A 2003 survey of the top 500 machinery companies in China revealed that only 23 out of 57 had full product development capabilities, while many others were limited to localized or partial development. Most lacked the capacity for advanced, high-tech, or system-level innovation.
Production and supply methods have also evolved significantly worldwide. Modularization and the “ready-to-install†concept have improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced competitiveness. For example, the cockpit of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class SUV in Alabama is supplied as a module from 35 different suppliers across six countries, assembled by Delphi in just 120 minutes. In China, modular supply systems are still in early stages, with only a few companies adopting this approach.
The supply chain structure has also changed globally. Major automakers now prefer to work with fewer, more capable suppliers, shifting from single-part procurement to module-based sourcing. This has led to a more integrated and standardized supply chain, forming a “pagoda-type†structure where top manufacturers manage the entire network. However, Chinese auto parts exporters often lack the coordination and standardization needed to compete effectively. Many export small-volume products worth less than $10,000, resulting in a fragmented and disorganized export landscape.
Technologically, major global suppliers have incorporated advanced technologies such as aerospace, electronics, safety systems, energy-saving, and environmental protection into their products. Electronic information technology is now deeply embedded in design, production, and management processes. In contrast, China’s auto parts exports are largely composed of low-technology, labor-intensive goods with limited value addition.
Finally, information dissemination remains a major challenge for Chinese auto parts companies trying to enter the global market. Foreign buyers often find it difficult to identify reliable suppliers due to poor communication channels. In contrast, international companies use industry associations, peer reviews, and professional networks to streamline the process. Without these tools, many Chinese suppliers remain overlooked despite their potential. By improving information flow and adopting global procurement practices, China’s auto parts industry can better position itself on the world stage.
Scrap Metal Baler,Metal Baler,Scrap Metal Baling Machine,Metal Scrap Baler
Jiangsu nanyuan hydraulic co.,ltd , https://www.nyhydraulic.com