The Development of Alternative Powertrain Technologies within Automotive Innovation Networks: A two-stage Network Analysis

Abstract

The current simultaneous development of different alternative powertrain technologies is a complex and expensive challenge for the whole automotive industry. As high risks and costs can be shared and complementary core competencies can be combined, innovation networks gain importance. Since little is known about these networks, we address the following research question: What are the structural and strategic characteristics of innovation networks regarding the different powertrain technologies? Based on our PICMET 2016 Conference paper, our study contributes to the scientific discussion on patent and network analyses in different ways: (1) We show an elaborate search strategy using IPC classes and keywords in order to generate a valid patent dataset for the four major powertrain technologies: BEV, FCEV, HEV, and ICEV. The dataset consists of 3,140 bilateral connections between OEMs, suppliers and companies from other industries for the years 1990–2013. (2) We apply a rigorous methodological approach within a two-stage network analysis using a multitude of network measures. Within this analysis, we assess both the macro-perspective of the four technologies' networks (stage 1) and the micro-perspective of central and important companies within each network (stage 2). By differentiating the network structures, we highlight different approaches used by the companies and thereby extend the understanding of cooperation within the automotive supply chain. On the macro-level, the main results show significant structural differences between the analyzed networks. On the micro-level of company activities, we find strong vertical, horizontal and lateral cooperation. Furthermore, we identify the central network positions of key players.