The Effect of Economic and Infrastructure Factors on the Formation of Electric Vehicle Supply Chain and Optimal Location Selection: Korea-US FDI

Purpose - This study aims to present the changes and directions in the automotive supply chain in the face of changes in the global supply chain caused by external factors and the integration of industries resulting from internal factors. Assuming FDI in the Korean automotive industry in the US, this study analyzed the influential factors over the long term and derived the optimal location. Design/methodology - For this analysis, the characteristics and current status of the automotive industry are presented. Additionally, the study emphasizes the necessity and direction of change. The factors influencing Korea-US FDI in the automotive industry and the electric vehicle industry were analyzed through panel analysis. The optimal location from the perspective of distribution costs was selected using linear programming under the assumption that local demand will be replaced by local production in the future. Findings - This study found that the electric vehicle supply chain will change with the characteristics of the electric and electronic industries rather than with the traditional automotive industry. Additionally, in deriving the optimal location, the study emphasized the proximity to the consumption market. Originality/value - The analysis method and conclusions of this study not only present the influential factors and direction of FDI in the automotive industry but also can be applied to other industries. Moreover, the study provides practical and policy implications for industries and governments considering FDI in the US.