Abstract:

This research project focuses on the entry of western European auto makers into eastern European markets and economies. Its purpose is to examine evolving competitive circumstances in the manufacture and marketing of automobiles and to explore the emerging role of eastern European economies in that industry. The study necessarily considers a number of forces at work influencing the industry: -1 investments by auto firms in eastern Europe; -2 market considerations; -3 competitive issues; -4 The European community and the auto industry; -5 privatization; -6 immigration; and, -7 environmental issues. The endpoint of the analysis is to determine the nature of changing competition in the auto business in Europe and the future complexion of the industry with eastern European participation.