DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND BUSINESS PROCESS INNOVATION IN SLOVENIAN AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY: AN IN-DEPTH QUALITATIVE STUDY

This paper aims to delve into the process of transforming business models and value chains within the automotive industry, with a specific focus on the significance of digital transformation (DT) and its role in addresing transition challenges based on changed consumer preferences, electrification and supply chain complexities. By examining empirical insights derived from in-depth interviews conducted with Slovenian companies operating in automotive industry, this study contributes to the existing literature by establishing connections and shared concepts across various research domains. It sheds light on key empirical findings within a country boasting a long tradition in automotive industry, while providing informed recommendations. The main findings underscore the considerable variations between companies in terms of their current technological progress and the technologies they employ in their operational processes. These differences are influenced by factors such as their position within the supply chain, company size and the leadership’s attitude toward embracing digital solutions