Innovation and the evolution of the U.S. auto industry, 1900-1975
By: Nathan Simon, Michael Watkins
Contributors: Watkins, Michael, 1956-; Harvard Business School. Division of Research
Series: Working paper / Division of Research, Harvard Business School -- 02-097; Working paper (Harvard Business School. Division of Research) -- 02-097
Publisher: Division of Research, Harvard Business School
Published: 2002
Place of publication: Boston]
Language: eng
Number of pages: 64
Description: The U.S. automobile industry from its inception until 1975 evolved through a process resembling the punctuated equilibrium model of biological evolution. Alternating periods of flux and stability culminated in the convergence of a small number of producers on a common model of manufacture. It was a process during which two disruptive architectural innovations, which concentrated in their turn on scale and scope economies, were melded into a dominant method of automobile design and manufacture. Exogenous shocks hastened the process and incremental elaboration brought it to its logical conclusion. Exceptional efficiency ensued, attended by it concomitants: rigidity and vulnerability.
Notes: "June 2002."

Includes bibliographical references.