A large global automobile manufacturer is considering outsourcing the manufacturing of a solenoid used in the transmission of its SUVs. The company estimates that annual fixed costs of manufacturing the part in-house, which include equipment, maintenance, and management, amounts to $6 million. The variable costs of labor and material are $5.00 per unit. The company has an offer from a major subcontractor to produce the part for $8.00 per unit. However, the subcontractor wants the company to share in the costs of the equipment. The automobile company estimates that the total cost would be $4 million, which also includes management oversight for the new supply contact.

a.How many solenoids would the automobile company need per year to make the in-house option least costly?

b.What other factors, besides costs, should the automobile company consider before revising its supply chain for SUVs?

Can you please explain and provide all steps so that I can fully understand. Thank you.