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Software is relatively easy to scale. Manufacturing small electronic devices can also be scaled by outsourcing to factories in China (even Apple does it). Scali
by peterjlee 9y ago
Software is relatively easy to scale. Manufacturing small electronic devices can also be scaled by outsourcing to factories in China (even Apple does it). Scaling automotive production seems a lot harder. There aren't a lot of car factories out there waiting for some car company to make an order. Building your own factory can take billions of dollars and years to complete. Even Tesla is struggling with scaling production.
- digikata 9y agoIf their modifications work, then couldn't an existing truck manufacturing company purchase them and integrate the tech into their existing line?
- an_account 9y agoIt might not be able to mass produce their changes. Vehicles are designed around the production line. Think ikea flat pack furniture vs a custom carved table.
- digikata 9y agoThat's what hardware "design for manufacture" product stages are all about. But no one puts money into that unless there's some knowable value in putting forth that effort. So if a startup proves the value, then a vehicle manufacturer could be willing to do that redesign and integration.
- maxxxxx 9y agoProduction is not even the biggest problem. You also need nationwide maintenance and parts supply networks. That's the big advantage of the established manufacturers. They already have these networks in place. It always amazes that I can get almost any part the next day when I go to a dealer.