Slovakia’s automotive sector enters a new era

Slovakia remains one of Europe’s automotive powerhouses. Cars account for a major share of the country’s industry and exports. Nearly one million vehicles rolled off Slovak production lines in 2024, keeping the country among global leaders in per-capita production.

According to Gergely Fónod, Managing Director of Rohlig SUUS Logistics Slovakia, the sector is now undergoing its biggest transformation in decades. Electrification and new regulations are reshaping both manufacturing and supply chains. The construction of Volvo’s electric vehicle plant near Košice signals how fast the market is moving.

Fónod notes that electric vehicles bring new logistics challenges. Batteries and high-voltage parts require special handling, certified storage and trained staff. At the same time, supply chains must be faster and more precise to avoid production downtime.

He also points to changing global trade flows. U.S. tariffs and rising competition in Europe are pushing manufacturers to rethink export strategies. This is opening new opportunities in Central Asia, where demand for modern vehicles is growing and infrastructure is improving.

To stay competitive, logistics must become a strategic tool, Fónod says. Models such as Vendor Managed Inventory help stabilise production, reduce costs and improve cash flow. Advanced customs management and flexible warehousing are now essential.

“In today’s market, efficient logistics is no longer just support. It is a competitive advantage,” Fónod adds.

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