18
So much for that "massive area"
(pxscdn.com)
I chose this area because I thought that I'd have room to automate all the super early game mats and build my space elevator. Now I'm not so sure. Right now I have iron plates, iron rods, screws, wire, cable, and concrete automated with smelters ready to set up copper sheets the next time I play.
I built my SE over a large lake near the second starting area that had some nearby flat land and already things are piled on top of each other, belts weaving all over. Honestly though, automation doesn't even truly begin until you're into phase 2. Trying to set up smaller specialized factories that have routes between each other is my current strategy.
Some people say to just wait for trains (just unlocked!) or build long belts, but I enjoy the vehicles and setting up the truck depots. Very helpful with the rough terrain around me as well.