The Auto Industry

In the automobile industry, a great proportion of income comes from selling automobiles. Globalization is the inclination of world investment and business to move from a country and local markets to a worldwide environment, is a major factor that affects the auto market. More than ever, it has been easy for foreign auto dealers to enter the American market creating competition. Competition is a major factor that takes a toll on the auto industry. In America the car making market is driven by what's known as the "Big Three:" Investopedia.com says, "The profits (and losses) of the big 3 are thought to be an indicator of the overall US economy."

General Motors - produces Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Buick, and Cadillac. Daimler Chrysler - Chrysler, Mercedes, Jeep, and Dodge. Ford Motor Co. - Ford, Lincoln, Volvo, and Jaguar.

However, Two of the biggest foreign car manufacturers are:

Toyota Motor Co. & Honda Motor Co.

Illustration of Porters 5 Forces. Illustrates arti...

United States

United States

Mr. Michael E. Porter identified 5 competitive aspects that shape all industries in his book called "Techniques for Analyzing Industries and Competitors" The below 5 forces by Porter show the relationship between the various competitive forces:

Porter's 5 Forces Analysis

1.Threat of New Entrants- It was thought that the American automobile industry and the Big Three were safe. But this was not true when Honda Motor Co. opened its first office in Ohio. The expansion of foreign competitors began to decrease the market of American companies. Some factors that decrease foreign cars from becoming a threat are: loyalty to American made cars and the cost it would take to replace damaged parts that are manufactured in foreign countries.

2. Power of Suppliers - A lot of suppliers depend on a certain automaker to buy a majority of their products. If an automaker decided to change suppliers...