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Knowledge Sourcing, Knowledge Bases, and the Spatial Organisation of Car Design

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  • Erwin van Tuijl
  • Luís Carvalho

Abstract

This paper analyses the geographical implications of having different types of knowledge bases—synthetic and symbolic—involved in one single but complex innovation process: car design. To do so, we investigated three contrasting car design strategies (Audi, Renault, and SAIC-GM) with the aim of exploring empirical regularities and the reasons underlying the links between knowledge bases, knowledge sourcing mechanisms, and resulting spatial configurations. Evidence suggests that when the synthetic knowledge base is dominant, formal collaboration and mobility are prime knowledge sourcing mechanisms. Moreover, knowledge creation and exchange is likely to occur between actors permanently located within the same region or through the temporary colocation of globally spread innovation partners. On the other hand, when symbolic knowledge is dominant, mobility, monitoring, and buzz turn to be the most relevant sourcing mechanisms, and knowledge creation and exchange are likely to occur within a more strictly local dimension (eg, in cities), through temporary colocation configurations (eg, presence in fairs and via temporary staff exchange), and by global scanning of competitors and trends.

Suggested Citation

  • Erwin van Tuijl & Luís Carvalho, 2014. "Knowledge Sourcing, Knowledge Bases, and the Spatial Organisation of Car Design," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 46(8), pages 1966-1982, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:46:y:2014:i:8:p:1966-1982
    DOI: 10.1068/a46282
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Ron Boschma, 2017. "A concise history of the knowledge base literature: challenging questions for future research," Papers in Evolutionary Economic Geography (PEEG) 1721, Utrecht University, Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Group Economic Geography, revised Sep 2017.

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