This introductory chapter provides a brief overview over the research problems, analytical approach and structure of this edited volume. Overall, the volume aims to guide the reader through an exploration of how the global automotive industry is changing and what the main drivers of transformation are; of which newcomers we are observing, what developmental strategies they are pursuing and what obstacles they are encountering. Building on the experiences of these emerging players, the volume offers an extensive empirical base to understand the real challenges of GVC-led industrialisation, their policy implications and their meaning for local development. The numerous country cases also help substantiate a series of crucial theoretical reflections, on different integration patterns, on the value of institutions, on firm internationalisation strategies, on labour regimes and on technological change within GVCs. Together, empirical and theoretical chapters also allow us to make sense of the big transformations that are affecting the industry, and of electrification in particular, from an emerging economies perspective.