The Role of Advanced Technologies and Cost Strategies in Building Efficient, Sustainable Automotive Supply Chains

Abstract

This paper aims to investigate the impact of Supply Chain Manager Capability, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Sustainable Supply Chain Practices, and Cost Leadership Strategies on Sustainable Performance (SP) of a firm. Additionally, the study seeks to identify the mediating role of Leagile practices in achieving sustainability objectives, particularly in the automotive sector of Pakistan. This study employed a quantitative approach to collect data from executives, managers, and directors working in the automotive supply chain process. A sample size of 254 respondents was selected, and the data were analyzed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS SEM). The results showed that AMT has a positive impact on sustainable performance. In comparison, Leagile strategy plays a mediating role in enhancing supply chain efficiency (SCE), which can lead to sustainable performance of the firm. Moreover, it also proves that SCE is an essential arbitrator, which highlights the need for operational efficiency in transforming strategic supply chain actions into results that are sustainable. Yet, the supply chain manager (SCM) had no direct impact on Leagile methods, and technical and systemic resources are more likely to be dominant here. The research has some practical implications for supply chain executives, especially in developing countries such as Pakistan, where resource limitations and regulatory compliance impose localized policies. Companies can become more adaptable, resilient, and competitive by leveraging advanced technologies, sustainability practices, and cost reductions within a well-defined supply chain infrastructure. In the future, the research provides a good ground to explore sustainable supply chain performance in other sectors