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The extent of job automation in the automobile sector in South Africa

Author

Listed:
  • Bianca I Chigbu
  • Fhulu H Nekhwevha

Abstract

This study argues that the automobile sector’s body shop is fully automated, the paint shop is 80% automated, there is about 20% technology utilization in the car assembly line, and the supply for logistics is making a lot more use of machines as well. These percentages are an indicator of how workers have lost the contest with technology in the industry. Many workers are being deskilled and the remaining workers are being reshuffled to assembly lines likely to be automated with time. There should be interventions to ready the workers to adapt to society and the economy, or there will be massive unemployment.

Suggested Citation

  • Bianca I Chigbu & Fhulu H Nekhwevha, 2022. "The extent of job automation in the automobile sector in South Africa," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 43(2), pages 726-747, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:43:y:2022:i:2:p:726-747
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X20940779
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Włoch, Renata & Śledziewska, Katarzyna & Rożynek, Satia, 2025. "Who's afraid of automation? Examining determinants of fear of automation in six European countries," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 81(C).

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