Book excerpt: Proven technologies and processes are explored in this examination of modern automotive manufacturing. Fundamentals and applications, as well as new advances are discussed as the author bridges the gap between academic research and industrial practice. Having held positions as both a University Professor and as a Lead Engineering Specialist in industry, the author presents a concise understanding that reflects both technical and managerial perspectives with the aim of providing improvement through practical methods. Each chapter includes review questions and research topics, and, in addition, analysis problems are often included that comprehensively address: • Automotive Industry and Competition • Manufacturing Operations • Joining and Paint Processes • Production Operations and Quality Management • Performance Improvement Directly extracted and summarized from automotive manufacturing practices, this book serves as a fundamental manual. The subject is complemented by the author’s second book, Manufacturing System and Process Development for Vehicle Assembly, which provides even greater depth to the subject of modern automotive manufacturing.