🇸🇰 Slovakia

Slovakia is a Central European country of 5.4 million with a GDP of about $130 billion that's become one of the world's most car-dependent economies — it produces more cars per capita than any other country (about 200 per 1,000 inhabitants). Volkswagen, Kia, Stellantis, and Jaguar Land Rover all have plants here. The country split peacefully from the Czech Republic in 1993 (the "Velvet Divorce"). Bratislava is the only national capital that borders two other countries (Austria and Hungary). The High Tatras mountains, though small, are called the "smallest high mountains in the world" and offer Alpine scenery in a compact package.

Automotive manufacturing accounts for about 50% of industrial output and 40% of exports. Germany, Czech Republic, and Poland are the top trade partners. Slovakia adopted the euro in 2009. The country has attracted significant EV battery investment — Volvo and InoBat are building facilities. GDP growth has been around 2-3%. The eastern part of the country is significantly poorer than the western part, creating a persistent regional divide.

Slovakia has more castles and châteaux per capita than any other country — over 180 castles, including Spiš Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe. The country's Dobšiná Ice Cave is one of the most impressive ice caves in the world, with ice formations up to 25 meters thick. Slovakia's Andy Warhol (born Andrew Warhola) had parents who emigrated from a village in eastern Slovakia.

Slovakia's automotive bet has paid off handsomely, but the EV transition is a make-or-break moment — if the plants don't convert to EV production, the entire economic model is at risk. The battery investments suggest the pivot is happening.