Stagnation in Motion: Mapping the Intermodal Export Logistics of Dacia and Ford Otosan in Romania

Abstract

The automotive industry represents a fundamental pillar of the Romanian economy, having recently surpassed a significant production milestone of over 500,000 vehicles annually. This paper examines the industrial and logistical dynamics of the two primary manufacturers, Automobile Dacia and Ford Otosan, following the complicated post-pandemic period of volatility and a strained logistical network. Current academic literature touches upon the broad stability of Eastern European manufacturing and its sustainable transition. However, this high-level perspective often overlooks the localized economic realities and logistical hurdles specific to Romania. This study addresses that gap by providing a much-needed empirical look at how transportation constraints are currently shaping regional performance. The research methodology utilizes a quantitative approach, employing regression analysis and statistical metrics such as the coefficient of variation to evaluate the correlation between corporate turnover and Gross Domestic Product at local, regional and national levels. The study seeks to answer how these production facilities influence surrounding economic development and to what extent infrastructure limitations hinder outbound distribution. Findings indicate that Automobile Dacia continues to provide a stable industrial baseline, yet it is Ford Otosan’s recent scaling that has driven the most significant economic gains in South-West Oltenia. Although the 2025 Schengen accession effectively removed border-crossing bottlenecks, these logistical gains are being undercut by Romania’s degrading national rail network. Another central contribution of this research is outlining the disconnect between industrial growth and infrastructure development, generating an imbalanced use of intermodal transportation and impeding finished vehicles' logistics efficiency. To remain a major European automotive industry player, Romania must close the gap between its record-breaking production volumes and the struggling road and rail transportation networks that move them.