Automotive expert analysis on global, North American and Canadian automotive sector trends

TITLE OF PROJECT Automotive expert analysis on global, North American and Canadian automotive sector trends PURPOSE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) requires the services of a Consultant for analysis of the Canadian automotive manufacturing sector and the global automotive industry as a whole. The purpose of this requirement is to have efficient access to external automotive expertise covering areas outside of ISED’s internal capacity (e.g. specific information on the automotive industry, financial and corporate governance, plant risk assessment). This contract will enable ISED to receive strategic information and intelligence from industry experts on a timely and as-needed basis. The services will be required for a period commencing from contract award day to the three hundred sixty-five (365) calendar days after the contract has been awarded, with two (2) one-year option periods to be exercised at ISED’s discretion. BACKGROUND ISED develops and implements policies and initiatives to encourage innovation, international competitiveness and sustainable growth in the automotive manufacturing sector and other industries that manufacture land-based transportation equipment such as rail, heavy trucks and buses. ISED fulfils its mission by gathering and analysing sectoral and business intelligence to develop evidence-based policies, strategies and programs that promote trade, attract investment, advance new technologies and skills, and enhance competitiveness. As one of Canada’s largest manufacturing sectors, the automotive industry is a key driver of Canada’s economy. The industry contributes about 10% of manufacturing Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs over 126,000 Canadians in assembly and auto parts manufacturing. Canada’s automotive footprint includes five (5) global vehicle manufacturers (General Motors, Ford, Fiat Chrysler, Toyota and Honda) which are concentrated in southern Ontario with approximately 700 auto suppliers, as well as a variety of automotive researchers across Canada.  In addition, the global automotive industry is in a period of immense change as major technological advances bring several innovations in the industry, such as new materials and manufacturing technology, intelligent mobility technology and advances in powertrain and energy storage. These innovations are driven by strict regulations to meet fuel efficiency, emission, and safety standards, as well as growing consumer expectations. New vehicle and production innovations, and non-traditional players in the automotive field will be transforming the global automotive industry business models, and add significant emphasis on the importance of research and development. Access to an automotive expert allows ISED to monitor the industry and gather necessary industry information, specifically in support of ISED program funding and policy activities. PROJECT REQUIREMENTS/OBJECTIVES To satisfy its specific information needs, ISED requires an external automotive expert to provide timely strategic information, analysis, intelligence, and advice on various aspects of the automotive manufacturing sector and other land-based transportation industries. The work conducted would be requested on an “as needed” basis. SCOPE OF WORK The project requires the contractor to provide North American and global automotive production forecasting by tracking future production programs, analysing current and potential sourcing strategies, and advising on Canadian automotive industry development strategies. The contractor will perform the work based on its own proprietary, licensed and public-domain automotive analysis tools or models and associated data sets.