The fourth edition of the OTEA study highlights a shift in manufacturing culture
Having the right information is essential for acting more effectively and with greater foresight. It is also vital to have access to reliable data on the context in which one operates. This is why the fourth OTEA report, ‘Osservatorio sulle trasformazioni dell’ecosistema automotive italiano 2025’ (report on the transformation of the Italian automotive ecosystem 2025), which was coordinated by Giuseppe Giulio Calabrese and Francesco Zirpoli, is so important. This year, in particular, as it analyses the impact of technological transformation on the Italian automotive sector.
OTEA’s research aims to examine how the accelerated move towards the commercialisation of zero-emission vehicles, alongside the evolution of product and process architectures that are increasingly characterised by digitalisation and software, is altering the structure and functioning of the supply chain. The research will also consider whether these changes primarily give rise to challenges or opportunities.
OTEA also examines how the supply chain is adapting its production structure to capitalise on opportunities arising from the development of software- and electronics-related components and modules. It is worth noting that the traditional boundaries of the automotive supply chain are expanding to encompass companies involved in digitalising products and processes, and developing technologies for connected cars. In other words, it is no longer just about mechanics; it is far more complex and varied than that.
Against this backdrop, the OTEA research project is moving from analysing a single supply chain to examining what is known as the ‘industrial ecosystem’, a concept encompassing technologies, innovations and human relationships that will ultimately lead to a shift in manufacturing culture.
Osservatorio sulle trasformazioni dell’ecosistema automotive italiano 2025
edited by Giuseppe Giulio Calabrese and Francesco Zirpoli
Venice, Edizioni Ca’ Foscari – Venice University Press, 2025
