What It Takes to Be a Top Performing EV Supplier

One of the highlights of the Automotive Outlook was a story of adaptation and innovation from Doug Peterson, founder of 3 Dimensional Services (client of UHY for 20 years).

3-Dimensional Services (3-D) has grown from a couple buildings and five employees, “a couple of machines and a ball-pean hammer,” to an industry leading company with more than 600 employees and over 500,000 sq. feet of space. Doug Peterson, founder of 3-Dimensional Services has always been at the forefront of technology, putting an emphasis on speed to market and being on the leading edge of technology. His experience can lend a lot to suppliers currently dealing with the uncertainty surrounding electrification.

Highly skilled personnel: putting people in the right places

One component of the 3-D way is carefully selecting employees, evaluating each on an individual basis and placing them in an environment where they will be successful, rather than seeking someone in “skilled labor”. The internal training programs have formed the majority of their core team that has allowed them to be successful over a long period through countless changes.

Speed to market: anticipating and meeting customer expectations

With an increased emphasis on speed to market, 3-D is experienced in turning things around quickly, knowing that EV startups do not have to purchase parts from them. Peterson emphasizes anticipating and meeting customer expectations. He acknowledges that while they were always delivering products quickly, as the EV revolution takes hold, the process has become faster yet.

Embrace technology and opportunities it can bring

Peterson purchased an EV in the very early stages and can attest to the limitations that were present 5-10 years ago, but after his first EV (Chevrolet Volt), he stuck with it and purchased a Tesla Model S, and his eyes were opened to the advancements and opportunities brought by the electric vehicle revolution. As an early adapter, 3-D has kept up with the trends while its original philosophy of speed to market and embracing technology remain intact.

Our full discussion with Doug Peterson can be found here, which includes more information on how the company was started, strategy discussion, Peterson’s personal hobbies and more about our 20-year business relationship.