The North American automotive chain is undergoing a profound transformation, according to Evelin Nava Castaldi , director of Purchasing and Supplier Quality at Stellantis Mexico .
In this regard, Nava commented that the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the semiconductor shortage, and geopolitical tensions tested manufacturers’ response capacity, forcing them to rethink their supply and production models.
He emphasized that the greatest learning experience was strengthening local chains and reducing dependence on distant markets. “The pandemic taught us that resilience begins at home,” he said at the 23rd International Congress of the Automotive Industry in Mexico (CIIAM) .
Nava explained that, in recent years, Stellantis significantly increased its Mexican supplier content , going from around 25% to 50% , with a strategy aimed at consolidating Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers .
“The goal is not only to have more local suppliers, but also to strengthen their response capacity, their technology, and their compliance with international standards,” he stated.
This approach seeks to make Mexico not just a manufacturing platform, but a center of development and innovation within the North American chain.
The director acknowledged that digitalization and predictive planning have become essential to anticipating risks and disruptions. Therefore, the company has implemented analytical tools that allow it to map vulnerabilities in its global network and respond quickly to logistical contingencies or component shortages.
Furthermore, Nava emphasized that resilience depends not only on large automakers, but also on the collaborative work between government, industry, and local suppliers to strengthen the Mexican manufacturing base.
“The region’s strength will depend on how well prepared all links in the chain are,” he said.
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