Renault joins UECC’s Sail for Change fuel-switching initiative Renault Group has become the fifth vehicle maker to join United European Car Carriers’ (UECC) Sail for Change fuel-switching initiative. Marcus Williams
Sponsored From family heritage to future-oriented vehicle logistics ARS Altmann celebrates 50 years of impact and growth, from the lasting values of its founder to the company’s vision for the future, which ranges from expanding its assets and portfolio to consolidating its logistics infrastructure through vertical and digital integration across Europe. Automotive Logistics
Maersk raises profit forecast as global container volumes increase Shipping firm Maersk has increased its forecast profit for the full year, expecting global container volumes to rise by 2-4% in 2025 compared to last year. Megan Kelly
Morning Midas car carrier sinks in north Pacific The pure car and truck carrier which was badly damaged by a fire on its vehicle decks has sunk in the Pacific Ocean. Marcus Williams
Zodiac Maritime's Morning Midas car carrier on fire in Pacific The car carrier Morning Midas has caught fire in the Pacific Ocean with a cargo of 3,000 vehicles being transported to the Mexican port of Lázaro Cárdenas from China. Marcus Williams
North America’s vehicle handling ports are investing in strength to manage volatility Upgrades to port infrastructure through 2024 have given some of the top volume processors room for manoeuvre amid uncertainty. Marcus Williams
Vehicle throughput remains steady at Vancouver but is expected to increase when Annacis VPC opens Tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports have affected volumes through the Canadian port of Vancouver but vehicle sales in Canada are up and imports from Mexico have remained consistent. Marcus Williams
Amports maintains strong throughput at Benicia with strict vehicle scheduling Amports Mark Boucher outlines the strong and consistent throughput the vehicle terminal operator has maintained through 2024 at the Californian port of Benicia. Marcus Williams
VW Group Logistics launches Venice port terminal to optimise exports, reduce emissions and improve resilience across vehicle logistics Volkswagen Group Logistics will expand its port network for finished vehicles of the Volkswagen Group with a terminal at Venice port in Italy, which will reduce lead times for many plants, increase rail transport, and shorten shipping times with Asia. Christopher Ludwig Megan Kelly
DSV finalises €14.3bn acquisition of DB Schenker, doubling size and strengthening global logistics network DSV acquires DB Schenker, adding 160,000 staff and boosting revenue to €41.6bn amid rising demand for global logistics solutions. Megan Kelly
US Trade Representative announces fee structure for vehicle and container deliveries by China-related shipping The US Trade Representative has announced that fees on China-related vessels calling at US ports will include a cost per car unit of $150 for finished vehicle carriers. Marcus Williams
There has been no marked increase in container and vehicle exports from Antwerp-Bruges ports to US as tariffs bite Tariffs and trade uncertainty have not yet caused export spikes at the Port of Antwerp Bruges, which handled 28m tonnes of goods in 2024, including significant finished vehicle and parts trade. Marcus Williams
Greek port of Piraeus reports decline in vehicle volumes in 2024 but increase in revenue Vehicle throughput at the Greek port of Piraeus was down in 2024 but the port authority has recorded an increase in revenue and will benefit from a new joint venture between Cosco Shipping and Neptune Lines. Marcus Williams
Spain’s Vigo port records increase in vehicle throughput including trade out of Morocco Spain’s port of Vigo has maintained a top position in the ranking of European vehicle-handling ports in 2024, helped by an increase in trade with Morocco. It is also installing an onshore power supply from renewable sources for berthed vessels. Marcus Williams
Cosco Shipping Car Carriers and Neptune Lines working together on Chinese vehicle distribution in Europe Cosco’s car carrier division has signed an agreement with European short-sea car carrier Neptune Lines to manage finished vehicle shipments from China to Europe via the Greek port of Piraeus. Marcus Williams
US trade organisations sign letter urging US Trade Representative to refrain from charging steep port fees on China-related vessels During this week’s hearing in Washington DC, trade organisations from across US industry have signed a letter urging the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to row back on its proposal to impose heavy fees on China-made vessels calling at US ports. Marcus Williams
National Transportation Safety Board report finds Francis Scott Key bridge was at high risk of collapse The risk of catastrophic collapse to the Francis Scott Key bridge was 30 times higher than the established safety threshold, according to a report from the National Transportation Safety Board. The report also finds that 68 other bridge in the US could be at risk. Marcus Williams
European Automotive Logistics Market Report 2025-2035 Download this comprehensive report with succinct industry analysis, market forecasts, company market share evaluations, and strategic recommendations Daniel Harrison
MSC stake in Terminal Investment could make it global leader in container terminals after Hutchinson sale MSC’s stake in the BlackRock-TIL buyout of Hutchinson’s non-China terminal portfolio could make it the global leader in container terminal capacity, according to market analysis by maritime expert Drewry. Marcus Williams
Vessel operators are bringing in more capacity for maritime finished vehicle shipments There appears to be a more even balance between demand and supply of ro-ro capacity for finished vehicle movements and rates appear to be dropping but the situation remains complex. Marcus Williams
CMA CGM to invest $20 billion in US shipbuilding, port infrastructure and automotive platforms CMA CGM plans to invest $20m in shipbuilding, ports, warehousing and automotive platforms over the next four years. Marcus Williams
BLG Logistics and Cosco Shipping Car Carriers to work together on China vehicle and equipment imports to Europe An agreement between BLG Logistics and Cosco Shipping Car Carriers will make the German port of Bremerhaven a hub for Chinese vehicle and equipment imports to Europe. Marcus Williams
NYK Line signs memorandum of understanding with Port of Hueneme to cut emissions and focus on energy efficiency The US west coast port of Hueneme is building on its commitment to cut emissions and improve energy efficiency in finished vehicle logistics with a new green corridor agreement for Japanese imports signed with NYK Line. Marcus Williams
United States Trade Representative is looking to impose heavy service fees on China-related shipping [Updated March 3] Following an investigation into unreasonable or discriminatory practice in international shipping, the United States Trade Representative is proposing to bring in fees of up to $1.5m for China-related vessel calls at US ports. Marcus Williams
Disruption, diversion and a year of delays: European finished vehicle ports review Lower car sales in Europe combined with disruption to routes in the Red Sea corresponded with a drop in volumes at a number of leading European vehicle terminals in 2024. Marcus Williams
Grimaldi is introducing additional liner services and investing in terminal operations around Europe Grimaldi is strengthening services for finished vehicle trade in Europe while at the same time building services for EV imports to there from China. Marcus Williams
Vehicle ro-ro exports continue to recover at Barcelona while containerised imports double The port of Barcelona has registed an increase in vehicle exports in 2024 and while imports have dropped overall, cars in containers imported have more than doubled. Marcus Williams
US-Panama Canal tensions escalate as US threatens action, raising fears of disruption for automotive logistics Tensions between the US and Panama over the use of its major logistics waterway have continued to boil, with the US secretary of state making accusations that the Panama Canal is controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. Megan Kelly
BYD and other Chinese OEMs accelerate vertical integration with dedicated ro-ro fleets for global vehicle exports Chinese OEM BYD has added a new vessel to its fleet, with the BYD Shenzhen ro-ro car carrier having undocked earlier this month. Megan Kelly
Chinese carmaker Chery builds on containerised vehicle shipments to Turkey with DP World service Chery is building the volumes of cars it ships in containers from China to Turkey supported by DP World operations at the Yarímca container terminal. Marcus Williams
VW Group moves more than 1.2m vehicles through German port of Emden in 2024; almost 5% down on previous year Volkswagen Group imported and exported 1.2m vehicles through Emden port in 2024, including 419,000 battery electric vehicles and hybrids, and is bringing in a new dock and yard management system. Marcus Williams
Kawa Shipping makes first call at JadeWeserPort on China-Europe Express container service Zhejiang Seaport Logistics has received its first express container ship call at JadeWeserPort in Germany with the arrival of the Kawa Ningbo. Marcus Williams
Tariffs and geopolitical disruption take their toll on ro-ro volumes through Antwerp-Bruges The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has seen a fall in the processing of new and used passenger cars but overall throughput has increased thanks to a boost in container traffic Marcus Williams
Wallenius Wilhelmsen and Georgia Ports Authority officially open Brunswick vehicle and equipment processing complex Wallenius Wilhelmsen officially opened its South Atlantic Transportation and Logistics Mega Center with Georgia Ports Authority at the US port of Brunswick last week. Marcus Williams
Crew of hijacked Galaxy Leader car carrier finally released by Houthi captors Houthi captors have released the 25 members of the Galaxy Leader crew who taken hostage in November 2023 when the ro-ro vessel was hijacked transiting the Red Sea. Marcus Williams
DP World begins finished vehicle and rolling equipment operations at port of Zeebrugge DP World is building up its European finished vehicle services with the opening of facility at the port of Zeebrugge. Marcus Williams
How Trump’s Panama Canal threat could reshape the automotive supply chain In his inauguration speech, second-term US president Donald Trump promised to “retake” the Panama Canal, claiming it was operated by China. Megan Kelly
Hyundai-Kia expands contract with car carrier Eukor to five years and strengthens presence in Asia Eukor has succesfully extended the terms of its contract to ship Hyundai and Kia vehicles from Korea as well as adding extra trade from China. Marcus Williams
Wallenius Marine has been testing its sail-driven car carrier concept with Rise Maritime in Gothenburg Wallenius Marine has been conducting advanced wind tunnel tests for a car carrier vessel that will use Oceanbird wing sails Marcus Williams
Hyundai working with Glovis America on Xcient hydrogen fuel cell truck rollout at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America Hyundai Motor Group is working with Glovis America on the use of Xcient hydrogen fuel cell trucks for inbound logistics operations at its EV metaplant in the US Marcus Williams
Latest ECG business intelligence report shows increase in global vehicle exports but slight decline in EVs to EU The Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG) reports there has been 25% increase in global vehicle exports from China but EU has imported fewer EVs in first nine months of 2024 Marcus Williams
Typhoon Kong-rey’s disruption on automotive logistics highlights the need for predictive tools Typhoon Kong-rey made landfall in Taiwan at the end of October before impacting the Philippines, East China, South Korea and Japan, disrupting ports in the region. Megan Kelly
A mixed picture for vehicle logistics capacity from the Association of European Vehicle Logistics Providers [Updated October 31] There remain transport capacity shortages for finished vehicle movements in Europe, though it’s a mixed picture according to mode, according to executives from the Association of European Vehicle Logistics Providers (ECG), which held its annual conference in Hamburg, Germany last week. The overall message was that the situation has certainly improved compared to 2022. Marcus Williams
VW Group opens dedicated vehicle terminal at Freeport Volkswagen Group of America (VWGoA) has officially opened a vehicle terminal facility at Port Freeport in Texas following an investment of $114m. Marcus Williams
Impact of Hurricane Milton on auto operations not as severe as Helene The impact of Hurricane Milton, which landed as a Category 3 storm on the Florida coastline late Wednesday (October 9), is still being assessed for its impact on container and finished vehicle logistics in the affected region. Marcus Williams
BYD to share vessel capacity for vehicle shipments with Hyundai Glovis Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Hyundai Glovis to share vessel capacity for deep-ocean finished vehicle shipments between China and BYD’s export markets. Marcus Williams
Wallenius Wilhelmsen increases car carrier capacity Wallenius Wilhelmsen has modified its order for four Shaper Class vessels from China’s Jinling Shipyard, increasing the capacity of each from 9,300 car equivalent units (CEU) to 11,700 CEU. It means the pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) will be the largest such vessels so far put into operation. Marcus Williams
APM Terminals boosts vehicle throughput at Pipavav APM Terminals has recorded almost 4,000 vehicles processed through the Indian port of Pipavav for the month of May, and the highest number of rail wagons handled at the port in a single month. The terminal processed 40 newly modified goods (NMG) rakes, up on its previous record of 30 in March this year. Marcus Williams
Canada imposes tariffs on EVs and materials from China The Government of Canada is imposing a 100% tariff on all imported Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) beginning October 1 this year, one of four measures the country has announced this week to address unfair international competition. Marcus Williams
Maruti Suzuki exporting Fronx SUV to Japan Maruti Suzuki India has started exporting its Fronx SUV to Japan – the first SUV the vehicle maker has launched in the country. Maruti Suzuki also exports the Baleno sedan, which it started doing in 2016. Marcus Williams
Maersk: Container volume to rise, Red Sea disruption continues Shipping company AP Møller-Maersk has raised its outlook for the global container market volume growth for the full year, despite supply chain disruption caused by the situation in the Red Sea which is now expected to continue at least until the end of the year. Megan Kelly
Stellantis joint venture with Leapmotor imports first batch of battery EVs from China to Europe Following the establishment of the joint venture between Stellantis and Chinese EV maker Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology in May this year, Leapmotor International shipped its first volume of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from China to Europe in July. Marcus Williams
Vehicle throughput down in H1 at ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge In in its half year results, the port authority of Antwerp-Bruges has reported a drop in finished vehicle handling of -9% to 1.66m units through the terminals at the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge. Overall ro-ro traffic is down by 5.7% at 10.3m tonnes. Marcus Williams
Yusen Logistics builds on Asia-Europe rail alternative for cargo Yusen Logistics has started a rail freight service between Vietnam and Europe. The logistics provider said the service provided an alternative to ocean container services that continue to be disrupted by attacks on shipping in the Red Sea at the same time that capacity is being tested by an increase of exports from Asia. Marcus Williams
MSC subsidiary SAS buys out Gram Car Carriers Shipping Agencies Services Sárl (SAS), a subsidiary of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), has bought a majority 97% stake in Gram Car Carriers in a deal valued at around $693.3m. The acquisition is expected to be complete on July 25. Marcus Williams
Kia enters European commercial electric van market Kia is entering the European light-commercial electric vehicle market with its full-electric Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) van range, due to launch next year via import from South Korea. Megan Kelly
Cosco Shipping cuts emissions on vehicle shipments Cosco Shipping Specialized Carriers has deployed two 7,500 CEU dual-fuel pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) vessels. The newly launched vessel Liao He Kou is set to embark on its journey carrying over 5,000 commercial vehicles to Europe and the Min Jiang Kou, will transport more than 4,800 commercial vehicles following the completion of loading operations in Shanghai, according to the Cosco Shipping subsidiary. Marcus Williams
Ceva integrates Bolloré Logistics following CMA CGM buyout Following its acquisition by CMA CGM for €4.85 billion ($5.24 billion) at the end of February this year, Bolloré Logistics is being absorbed into the Ceva Logistics division, adding scale in air and ocean freight services, according to Ceva. Marcus Williams
Manuel Purwin moves to CCO role at Scan Global Logistics Manuel Purwin has moved to take the role of chief commercial officer (CCO) for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (Emea) region (excluding the Nordic countries) at freight forwarder Scan Global Logistics. Purwin moves from his role as global head of Automobility+ at logistics provider DB Schenker. Marcus Williams
Sallaum Lines invests to expand vehicle capacity at Antwerp terminal Sallaum Lines’ subsidiary Sallaum Terminal is investing €20m ($21.6m) in its operations at the port of Antwerp to expand capacity and streamline logistics processes. The vehicle logistics provider said the investment was in response to pent-up demand and persistent capacity pressures as OEM volumes increase and terminal operators cope with the new requirements for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Marcus Williams
Wallenius Wilhelmsen signs contract with leading equipment maker Wallenius Wilhelmsen has announced the signing of a three-year contract worth $195m with a leading industrial equipment manufacturer. The ro-ro shipping and vehicle logistics provider has the option to extend the initial term of the contract by two years. Marcus Williams
Red Sofa Interview: Skotti Fietsam on calculating ROI of digitalisation for Accuride’s supply chain At the inaugural ALSC Digital Strategies North America, the head of supply chain for tier one supplier of wheels for commercial vehicles, Accuride, took to the Red Sofa to discuss how to calculate hard and soft savings and return on investment for digital technologies.
Data snapshot: Volume increases at Mexico’s finished vehicle handling ports Finished vehicle handling ports in Mexico have seen volume increases across the board in 2023, with three of them now in the top five vehicle-handling ports in the wider North American market. Marcus Williams
Polestar adopts biofuels to cut emissions from ocean shipments Polestar is working to reduce supply chain emissions from its global finished vehicle and inbound logistics operations through the use B30 marine biofuel for ocean shipments, which can reduce emissions by approximately 20-25% compared with conventional sulphur fuel oils. Marcus Williams
Brunswick port records historical month for autos and equipment The US port of Brunswick has reported its busiest ever month in April, thanks in part to finished vehicles and high and heavy (H&H) traffic diverted from the port of Baltimore following the collapse of the Francis Key Scott bridge in March. Marcus Williams
Forvia’s supply chain built on technology and trust Tier one parts supplier Forvia is using the latest digital technology to manage its supply chain and mitigate disruption, while maintaining close communication with its logistics providers, says Ricardo Manzanera, transport director for Americas purchasing logistics Marcus Williams
Wallenius Wilhelmsen sells Melbourne ro-ro terminal Wallenius Wilhelmsen (WW) has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Melbourne International Roro & Auto Teminal (Mirrat) to a subsidy of Qube Holdings, Australia’s largest logistics provider. Megan Kelly
Private equity and logistics firms eye up DB Schenker Deutsche Bahn has received several confirmed bids for its logistics division DB Schenker, according to the parent company. Megan Kelly
Drewes prepares to take over as CEO at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics Jens Drewes will take over as CEO of Hellmann Worldwide Logistics on June 1 from Reiner Heiken, who is retiring. Drewes moves over from Kuehne + Nagel, where he was most recently president of the Europe region. Marcus Williams
Autoport’s efficiency drive on the east coast US vehicle terminal operator Autoport, which processes vehicles through the port of Wilmington in Delaware, reports moving 115,000 vehicles through its facilities in CY2023. Marcus Williams
Red Sofa interview: Nissan’s Steve Jernigan on network improvements in Mexico At this week’s Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2024 conference in California, Steve Jernigan, senior director of supply chain management for Nissan North America, took to the Red Sofa to tell Richard Logan, senior content producer, Automotive Logistics about improvements to domestic haulaway performance in Mexico, which includes better equipment utilisation and availability.
Data snapshot: North American ports in review As North American ports navigated unpredictable vehicle volumes in 2023, the collaboration between terminal operators and port authorities highlighted a dynamic strategy for managing disruptions. Automotive Logistics brings you a comprehensive review of activity at the top-performing US and Canadian vehicle-handling ports Automotive Logistics
Chinese vehicle exports above 1.3m in first quarter, reports ECG Latest research from the Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG) reveals that vehicle exports from China hit 502,000 units in March, bringing year-to-date vehicle exports in Q1 to 1.3m. Marcus Williams
North American vehicle ports review: US and Canada ports adapt after Francis Scott Key bridge collapse [Updated June 17] Vehicle shipments to the US and Canada have been subject to disruption over the last year, culminating in March with the Baltimore bridge collapse. However, as our annual review of activity at the top-performing vehicle ports shows, that has only tested the mettle of agile cooperation between ports and inland logistics providers. Marcus Williams reports Marcus Williams
Transforming auto shipping: Navigating global challenges with containerisation Tight ro-ro capacity has led to an increase in the volume of finished vehicles shipped by container but the advantages of doing so suggest a wider adoption which experts in the field say could be here to stay Automotive Logistics
Containerised car deliveries soar on the US east coast The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) handled more than 35,000 containerised vehicles in 2023, ten times the amount it handled in the previous year. Marcus Williams
Tensions in Middle East trigger war risk premiums in freight rates As tensions escalate in the Middle East, Iran has captured a container ship linked to Israel, leading to heightened volatility in shipping markets. Container trading firm Container xChange is predicting a rise in war risk premiums. Megan Kelly
Honda begins vehicle exports from India to Japan Honda is now exporting its Elevate mid-size SUV from India to Japan via the port of Pipavav. The Elevate went on sale in Japan badged with the brand name WR-V last month and so far around 6,800 models have been delivered. It is the first time Honda has exported a model made in India to Japan. Marcus Williams
Wallenius Wilhelmsen secures sustainable capacity with PCTC orders Wallenius Wilhelmsen has ordered four additional next-generation Shaper Class pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) vessels from Jinling Shipyard in China, bringing its total order to eight. The first of the Shaper Class vessels already ordered are expected to be delivered in the second half of 2026. The four additional vessels will be delivered between May and November 2027. Marcus Williams
Battling the bottlenecks in European vehicle distribution Capacity constraints in finished vehicle logistics are a big headache for the automotive industry at the moment and carmakers have been chartering their own trucks and ocean ro-ro vessels to secure the space and get their cars to the end customer. However, taking capacity out of the network has an impact on efficiency and it doesn’t guarantee speed to market given the problems with port and inland compound congestion. Marcus Williams
Rebuilding resilience and stability for a more sustainable supply chain The multiple crises the automotive industry has experienced over the last four years have been a driver for innovation for inbound and outbound logistics processes, according to speakers at this year’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Europe conference in Bonn, Germany. Marcus Williams
NYK to capture vessel emissions in California with Stax technology From January 2025 NYK Line will use technology from Stax Engineering to capture exhaust emissions from the vessels its operates while they are at berth in Californian ports. The maritime logistics provider said the agreement with Stax, which is worth $16m, comes in response to the expanded exhaust emission regulations for vessels calling at ports in the state imposed by the California Air Resources Board (Carb). Marcus Williams
Latest research reveals impact of disruption on global trade and supply chains The latest Trade in Transition research paper released by Economist Impact, and supported by DP World, looks at globalisation and the current disruptions that are reconfiguring global trading and the supply chain. Marcus Williams
Tata’s Agratas confirms location of UK gigafactory for anchor client JLR Agratas, Tata Group’s global battery business, will build Britain’s biggest battery manufacturing facility at the Gravity Smart Campus near Bridgwater, Somerset. Megan Kelly
The many roads, fuels and tech leading to zero emission logistics at Volkswagen Group Volkswagen Group Logistics’ plan for cutting supply chain emissions will require multiple transport modes, technology innovation and investment with logistics partners for the long term. Christopher Ludwig
How Group Logistics is overcoming crises and shaping Volkswagen's future supply chain Volkswagen Group Logistics can increasingly master disruptions thanks to greater resiliency, but its managing director Simon Motter is making sure the group is ready to deliver on long-term goals for electrification, sustainability and cost. Christopher Ludwig
BYD wants to conquer Europe by maritime means BYD’s first own car freighter, the Explorer No. 1, and its maiden voyage to Bremerhaven mark the beginning of a new era for the OEM, which is intended to pave the way to Europe. The car manufacturer’s private fleet is set to grow further in the coming months. Ronja Schmiedchen
ABP invests to manage larger volumes through UK ports Associated British Ports (ABP) moved 1.3m finished vehicles through its port facilities in the Humber and Southampton last year, with a surge in volumes recorded in Q4. Marcus Williams
Antwerp-Bruges increases vehicle traffic in face of tight capacity The European ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge have recorded a 9% increase in the number of finished vehicles handled in calendar year 2023 to 3.56m. The merger of the Belgian ports under one operating authority was finalised in April 2022 and since last year it has reported joint volumes. Marcus Williams
Jens Bjørn Andersen steps down as CEO at DSV amid raft of executive changes DSV has begun the year with a number of executive changes at the top of its organisation. Jens Lund has taken over as group CEO at the Danish logistics provider from Jens Bjørn Andersen, and Brian Ejsing is appointed chief operations officer (COO). Marcus Williams
Brunswick port boosts vehicle and machinery handling in 2023 The US port of Brunswick moved more than 775,560 finished vehicle and machinery units last year, an increase of 15.6% on ro-ro performance in 2022. Marcus Williams
Jaxport signs deal with Enstructure to develop multiple-cargo facility Jacksonville Port Authority (Jaxport) has signed a 30-year agreement with US marine terminal and logistics provider Enstructure for the lease and development of a 32-hectare facility at the port’s Talleyrand Marine Terminal. Marcus Williams
Bora Argac expands commercial role at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has appointed Bora Argac as its new chief commercial officer (CCO) for Germany. He succeeds Kai Hasenpusch, who has moved to become sales director for Roadfreight West Europe at the logistics provider. Marcus Williams
Avtovaz looks for ro-ro capacity to strengthen vehicle exports Russian carmaker Avtovaz is looking to boost production through exports abroad in 2024, including target markets in Iran and Egypt, according to the carmaker’s president, Maxim Sokolov. It follows a two-year decline in foreign sales. Russian cargo carrier, Fesco said it would support the carmaker’s export plans with a specialised fleet of car-carrying vessels, which is subject to Avtovaz receiving a concrete export order. Automotive Logistics
Škoda begins exports from Europe to Vietnam Škoda has begun exporting its Kodiaq and Karoq models from the Czech Republic to Vietnam and has opened its first dealership in Hanoi. Megan Kelly
Maersk opts for land bridge due to Panama Canal drought Container shipping line Maersk has changed its services due to the ongoing drought affecting the Panama Canal and is instead opting for a ‘land bridge’ to mitigate disruptions. Megan Kelly
Red Sea blog: Live updates Houthi attacks on vessels passing through the Red Sea are increasing, causing container ship and ro-ro operators to reroute vessels to avoid danger. Follow Automotive Logistics’ live blog below for the latest updates. Megan Kelly
Sri Lanka’s Hambantota International Port increases vehicle throughput Hambantota International Port has reported an increase in finished vehicle throughput by 26% last year, compared to 2022. Its vehicle terminals handled 700,000 transhipments, a figure its chief operating officer Tissa Wickramasinghe, said put it in “the top end of the league” compared with other transhipment ports in the region. Marcus Williams
Mosolf restructures business and forms ports division Mosolf is starting 2024 with a group-wide restructuring designed to streamline existing finished vehicle services as well as forming a new division – Mosolf Port Logistics and Services (MPLS) – to focus on its activity in Cuxhaven, Wilhelmshaven and Zeebrugge. Marcus Williams
Vessel operators divert ships from Red Sea following Houthi attacks Container ship and ro-ro operators have rerouted vessels to avoid danger to crew and cargo in the Red Sea following a number of attacks on ships by Houthi militants in Yemen since October last year. Marcus Williams
Whitepaper: Partnerships in automotive logistics Discover the growing imperative for industry collaboration to achieve operational efficiencies, capacity enhancement, adapting to EVs and sustainability Megan Kelly
An automotive supply chain in transition – the year in review This year has seen investments in supply chain resilience and the adoption of digital technology across the global automotive sector continue, with some positive developments in terms of inbound parts deliveries and greater supply chain transparency supported by digital technology, though strike action by the United Auto Workers union has taken its toll on production in the US in the fourth quarter. Marcus Williams
Seaspan moves into car carrier sector with Hyundai Glovis Hong Kong-based containership owner and operator, Seaspan, has made an order for up to ten large liquefied natural gas (LNG) pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs), marking its first venture into the car carrier market. Megan Kelly
VW Group looks for partnerships to build a resilient North American supply chain As it expands operations in North America, Volkswagen Group is intensifying its collaboration strategy, both internally between departments and with its logistics providers. By doing so it is finding greater sustainable intermodal efficiencies on the inbound delivery of parts. Marcus Williams
Record month for Subaru imports through the Port of Vancouver USA The Port of Vancouver USA moved a record-breaking amount of Subarus in October this year, with more than 13,500 Japanese imports processed. Those imports included Crosstreks, Foresters, all-electric Solterras amongst other models. Marcus Williams
Houthi forces seize NYK car carrier in Red Sea [Updated Nov 22] A pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) chartered by NYK Line en route to India has been seized by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, off the coast of Yemen, near Hodeida. Marcus Williams
Hyundai Glovis invests in world’s biggest ro-ro vessels Hyundai Glovis is investing $1.89 billion in 12 dual-fuel car carrier vessels that will be able to run on liquified natural gas (LNG). Each ship will be able to carry 10,800 car equivalent units (CEUs) making them the world’s largest pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs). Delivery of the vessels is expected to be complete by 2027. Marcus Williams
Škoda opens CKD logistics hub in India [Updated October 30] Škoda Auto has a new 16,000 sq.m facility in Pune, India that it will use to pack complete knockdown (CKD) kits of its Kushaq and Slavia models for export to Vietnam. There, the CKD kits will be welded, painted and assembled at a production line currently being built in Quãng Ninh province and expected to open in the first half of 2024. Marcus Williams
Panama Canal disruptions set to continue into 2024, but container shipping less affected The drought that is impacting shipping logistics on the Panama Canal is set to continue for the rest of the year and into early 2024, according to meteorologists and logistics experts, but container shipping is less likely to be affected than other shipping modes. Megan Kelly
DP World advances vehicle container services with CFR Rinkens buyout DP World has acquired freight forwarder CFR Rinkens to bolster the development of its services for containerised vehicle shipments. Marcus Williams
FVL capacity constraints likely to remain across North America Expert panellists at Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Global 2023 explained current FVL capacity woes, mitigation strategies and why the issue will not be resolved any time soon. Daniel Harrison analyses how the FVL industry can work together to implement short-term solutions now, and begin planning for the future. Daniel Harrison
Chery puts car exports in containers to Turkey with help from DP World In the face of congestion at Turkey’s main finished vehicle handling ports, Chery Automobile has opted to put cars in containers for import through DP World’s Yarímca port terminal. Other Chinese carmakers are expected to follow suit and benefit from services DP World is providing. Marcus Williams
Rinse and repeat to make your supply chain robust Carmakers are confronted with a wide array of potential disruptions when trying to get service parts to the right place in a timely fashion. Marcus Williams
Auto sector needs a full-scope approach to sustainability There is a major disconnect between sustainability pledges and action in the automotive industry according to the findings of new study carried out by Kuehne + Nagel. Ilkhan Ozsevim talks to the logistics providers head of business development in Automotive + New Mobility, Achim Glass Ilkhan Ozsevim
EVs “in good condition” after Fremantle Highway ro-ro fire EVs on board car carrier Fremantle Highway are reported to be “in good condition” and salvageable after a fire that broke out on the vessel on 25th July, according to first inspections. Megan Kelly
From South Carolina to the world of BMW, with love BMW’s parts export operations in Spartanburg are a study in managing complexity and quality in packing, and where innovation can make a big difference. (Opening photo credit: SC Ports/English Purcell) Christopher Ludwig
Material mission impossible: digital control of BMW’s inbound logistics BMW has enhanced material planning and control systems for its Spartanburg plant across JIS, JIT and global flows, in close collaboration with Munich and partners in North America. Christopher Ludwig
Chinese vehicle exports keep Russian vehicle logistics afloat at sea – and by rail Russia has become the top destination for Chinese vehicle exports, rising almost 500% year-on-year. But vehicle logistics modes, cost and capacity are a challenge, leading to new delivery methods, including cars in containers.
Controlling destinies in GM’s supply chain GM’s global purchasing chief, Jeff Morrison, has forged new partnerships with suppliers across chipmakers, battery materials and logistics providers to create more stable, resilient operations. Now his team wants to regain even more control – especially in vehicle logistics, in which the industry is facing many bottlenecks. Christopher Ludwig
K Line ro-ro vessel on fire in North Sea The Dutch coastguard is trying to control a fire on car carrier Fremantle Highway, which has killed one member of its crew and left several of the remaining 22 crew members injured. The vessel was reportedly carrying up to 500 EVs among the almost 3,000 vehicles on board, prompting questions about EV safety risks in FVL. Megan Kelly
ECG publishes guidance on reporting ro-ro emissions The Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG) and international non-profit Smart Freight Centre have published the first harmonised methodology to account for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ro-ro operations. Megan Kelly
Volvo Cars uses renewable fuels in ocean freight Volvo Cars is reducing the CO2 emissions in its supply chain by 84% switching to renewable fuels for its ocean freight, as it becomes the first OEM to switch all intercontinental container shipments to more sustainable fuels. Megan Kelly
European vehicle ports review: Hanging in the balance Uneven volumes, a lack of transport capacity and labour have been testing Europe’s top performing finished vehicle handling ports, along with a new wave of EV imports from China. Can ports keep up with new dynamics and requirements? Marcus Williams
Sallaum Lines expands ro-ro capacity with new PCTC orders Shipping firm Sallaum Lines, which moves finished vehicles between the US, Europe and Africa, has ordered six new pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) vessels from China Merchants Shipyard to increase its ro-ro capacity. Megan Kelly
Vinfast delivers first EV exports to Canada Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) maker Vinfast has delivered its first shipment of 781 VF8 electric SUVs to Nanaimo port, British Columbia, Canada. Megan Kelly
VW Group of America: what data points in the delivery chain help us act? Anu Goel says it’s important for Volkswagen to determine what visibility logistics teams need versus what the customer needs – as they are not always the same.
Chinese automakers surge amid western withdrawal from Russian market Delegates at last week’s Spring Congress of the Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG) heard that China’s vehicle exports surged in the first quarter of 2023, as global demand for electric vehicles helped spur a strong start to the year. Malcolm Ramsay
Bridging the gap for vehicle distribution in North America The automotive industry in North America is dealing with a number of capacity and service lead time disruptions, many of which are shockwaves from the impact of the Covid pandemic. One of the most recent to be felt is the shift in volume imports from the east to the west coast of the US, a topic of discussion for carmakers and their logistics service providers at this year’s Finished Vehicle Logistics North America conference in California. Marcus Williams
Out of sight is not out of mind in today’s vehicle logistics Giving the end customer an accurate date for the delivery of their vehicle has taken on greater importance since the Covid pandemic. Marcus Williams
North American ports review: Co-operation helps calm the waters While vehicle volumes through North America’s gateway ports were sporadic in 2022, terminal operators have been working with port authorities to manage flows while investing for the return of stable volumes with more sustainable infrastructure. Marcus Williams
Ceva Logistics to offer carmakers sustainable ro-ro capacity Ceva Logistics has signed a ten-year lease on four new-build ro-ro vessels from its parent company CMA CGM, and will manage and operate them directly. The logistics provider will be able to move 140,000 vehicles annually using the vessels, which will be powered by both LNG and electric battery. Marcus Williams
Volatile output and tight ro-ro capacity disrupt auto volumes on US east coast Disruption to the production of vehicles and a tightening of ro-ro capacity resulted in a 5.6% drop in vehicle handling at the US ports of New York and New Jersey in 2022, compared to the previous year. The port processed just more than 444,000 vehicles last year. For the first quarter of 2023 volumes were down by almost 25% compared to Q1 2022, with just over 89,500 vehicles processed. Marcus Williams
Containing the boom after the bust Since it took over Gefco, Ceva Logistics has developed a fifth business division dedicated to finished vehicle logistics and it is now seeing an increase in global demand for containerised vehicle services, writes Marcus Williams Marcus Williams
Barcelona port increases finished vehicle throughput in 2022 The port of Barcelona reported an 18.4% increase in finished vehicle handling in 2022, moving more than 591,000 vehicles through the year. That growth was driven by imports and transhipment volumes, which increased +63% and +145.7% respectively. Marcus Williams
Taking the smoke out of the chain Vehicle makers are working with logistics providers to make the movement of parts and finished vehicles in Europe more sustainable. Malcolm Ramsay looks at localised battery supply, the use of etrucks and use of more rail Malcolm Ramsay
Digital clouds on the horizon for finished vehicle logistics The transport capacity shortage in finished vehicle deliveries could well be the next major disruption for the automotive industry. For Volvo Cars that means innovating to make the best use of available resources, which it is managing with its Over the Horizon planning strategy. Marcus Williams
BYD delivers first vehicles to UK but rules out local production BYD Auto delivered its first fully electric passenger car to the UK in March but the Chinese vehicle maker has ruled out building a manufacturing plant in the country because of Brexit. Marcus Williams
VW Group forecasts increase in deliveries as logistics problems ease VW Group expects vehicle deliveries to rise to around 9.5m units in 2023 and sales revenue to increase by between 10-15% compared to 2022. Marcus Williams
FVL Cost Index shows increase across transport modes and compounds Costs associated with the provision of finished vehicle logistics services in Europe increased by around 54% between January 2019 and September 2022, according to the first of a new cost index series of reports published by the Association of European Finished Vehicle Logistics and analyst PwC Austria. Marcus Williams
A Russian market close to catastrophe With grey imports on the rise and natural disasters adding to the limiting effects of international sanctions, any optimism about re-establishing Russian supply chains may be eclipsed by further harsh realities Automotive Logistics
Grimaldi buys terminal for vehicle imports through Amsterdam Grimaldi has acquired 20 hectares of space at the Dutch port of Amsterdam with the intention of importing new vehicles to northern Europe. Marcus Williams
Axel Bantel moves to BLG Automobile Logistics Axel Bantel has moved from his role as vice-president of Wallenius Wilhelmsen Ocean and Solutions to a new role as managing director of sales in the Automobile division of German logistics provider BLG. Marcus Williams
The swing of the post-Covid pendulum If the Covid pandemic and the consequent supply chain disruption has taught the North American finished vehicle sector anything, it is that better communication and stronger partnerships are essential to for a competitive and connected future. Dennis Manns, executive vice-president of North Motors Group talks to Automotive Logistics Hazel Southwell Marcus Williams
Ro-ro capacity crunch means carmakers are looking for containers The decrease in ro-ro capacity for vehicle shipments since August 2022, which is pushing up unit rates for carmakers significantly, is prompting them to look for space in containers, an option that that simply was not there six months ago. Marcus Williams
Seven new car carriers to be built for Anji shipping Two vessels from Jinling are expected to be delivered by November 2025, with a second batch of two at the end of March 2026. The three from Jiangnan are also expected in two batches, the first in October 2025 and the second also in March 2026. Hazel Southwell
Ceva completes integration of Gefco’s vehicle logistics business Ceva Logistics has completed the integration of Gefco’s finished vehicle logistics business and set up its own division under the direction of the French logistics provider’s former chief operating officer Emmanuel Cheremetinski. Marcus Williams
Volvo first to adopt VIN guidance from ECG and Odette The Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG) and Odette, the supply chain logistics standardisation, services and networking platform, have jointly developed a VIN-label standard aimed at making vehicle deliveries more efficient and safer. The new label recommendations have already been taken up by Volvo Cars. Marcus Williams
Chinese carmakers look to own ro-ro capacity A shortage in available capacity for finished vehicle shipments by ocean ro-ro vessel out of China, which has intensified over the last two quarters, has provoked a number of carmakers to look for control of their own assets. Marcus Williams
Mitsubishi hits export milestone in Thailand Mitsubishi Motors’ division in Thailand exported its 5 millionth vehicle this month. The carmaker marked the occasion with a ceremony on December 9 at Laem Chabang port and said the milestone underlined the location as a production hub for regional and global operations. Marcus Williams
Vincent Clerc replaces Søren Skou as CEO of Maersk Søren Skou is retiring as CEO of AP Møller-Maersk at the end of this year and will be replaced by Vincent Clerc, currently CEO of the shipping giant’s Ocean and Logistics division. Clerc will take up the new role as of January 1, 2023. Marcus Williams
Gefco purchase contributes to quarterly gains for CMA CGM CMA CGA’s purchase of Gefco this year helped lift its third quarter revenue to $19.9 billion. The global container logistics provider said the acquisition, which was approved in July, contributed $750m to its logistics revenue for the period. Logistics revenue totalled $4.34 billion in the third quarter of the year. Marcus Williams
Kyoo Bok Lee takes over as head of Hyundai Glovis Hyundai Glovis, the logistics arm of Hyundai Kia, has appointed Kyoo Bok Lee as its new president and CEO, replacing Jung-Hoon Kim, who has moved to an advisory role at the company. Marcus Williams
Volvo to make flagship electric SUV in US and China Volvo Cars launched its fully electric EX90 SUV last week. The seven-seater vehicle will be mass produced at the Swedish carmaker’s US plant in Ridgeville, South Carolina for domestic and export markets from 2024. Volvo said it also has plans to produce the vehicle in China. Marcus Williams
Compliance with Mexico’s Carta Porte a concern for the car industry The Mexican Tax Authority (SAT) has spent this year trying to bring in a new system designed to secure revenue on all Mexico-billed shipments of products. The Carta Porte specifies rules of compliance for every step of a product’s journey and each transport mode used, with penalties or seizure for non-compliance. Hazel Southwell
Renault keeps an eye on the road ahead Renault Group is transforming its supply chain with digital tools provided by Shippeo to gain greater visibility of parts location and predict where disruption could occur to avoid it. Hazel Southwell
Grimaldi orders ammonia-ready, dual-fuel car carriers Grimaldi has ordered five pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) vessels with capacity for 9,000 units for the transport of electric vehicles (EVs). The dual-fuel vessels will run on mega-lithium batteries and are prepared for the use of ammonia as a marine fuel. Marcus Williams
Xavier Leroi takes up COO role at Wallenius Wilhelmsen Xavier Leroi has taken up the role of chief operating officer (COO) for shipping at Wallenius Wilhelmsen (WW), replacing Erik Noeklebye, who announced his retirement from the company in June. Leroi takes up the role at the beginning of November. Marcus Williams
JCB signs up Maersk and Unipart Logistics for parts handling JCB has signed two major contracts with logistics providers Maersk and Unipart Logistics for global parts management. Marcus Williams
Nissan to benefit from investment in services at Brunswick port Nissan North America is the latest carmaker to use the US port of Brunswick for vehicle imports. The carmaker is moving vehicles through the port for distribution to its dealer network in the US south-east. Marcus Williams
VW to start vehicle imports through Port Freeport Volkswagen will start delivering its vehicles to the US through Port Freeport in Texas from early 2024. Annual throughput of imported vehicles from Mexico and Europe is expected to be 140,000 units and Freeport will become the carmaker’s main Gulf Coast hub. Marcus Williams
Six notes on a supply chain crisis: key takeaways from ALSC Global 2022 Summing up what was said at this year’s Detroit event: flexibility rules the waves of logistics, but supply chain managers want better visibility and data to make decisions, while investing in the right skills and labour. Christopher Ludwig
GM tackles costly supply chain disruption Speakers from GM at last week’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Global conference in Detroit, detailed how the carmaker was dealing with disruption and building in resiliency to its network, including through collaboration with its lower tier suppliers. Marcus Williams
The logistics of resiliency for General Motors Edgard Pezzo, executive director of global logistics and containerisation, explains how GM has invested in visibility, extra logistics capacity and focused on collaboration to protect the carmaker’s supply chain. He spoke ahead of the Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Global Conference, where he joins on a panel on logistics resiliency. Christopher Ludwig
A cautious outlook for the global finished vehicle sector In the second quarterly report into the finished vehicle logistics industry from RPM and Automotive Logistics, global providers and users of services revealed their main concerns for the next quarter. Marcus Williams
Andrea Eck to leave BLG’s Automobile division Andrea Eck will leave her role as head of the Automobile division at BLG Logistics at the end of this year. A permanent successor has yet to be announced but for the interim period BLG’s CEO, Frank Dreeke, will oversee management of the division. Marcus Williams
Scott Cornell takes over the helm at Glovis America Scott Cornell has been appointed president and CEO of Glovis America. He moves from his role as chief operations officer (COO) at the logistics provider, a role he has held for more than three years. Cornell joined Glovis America in 2015 as vice-president of commercial operations. Marcus Williams
Maersk pulls out of Russian terminal business and looks to Malaysia APM Terminals (APMT), which is owned by AP Moller-Maersk, is pulling its business out of Russia, with the divestment of its 30.75% share in Global Ports Investments (GPI), Russia’s biggest container terminal operator. Marcus Williams
Jaxport promotes James Bennett to chief operating officer role Jacksonville Port Authority (Jaxport) has promoted James Bennett to chief operating officer. He moves from his role as senior director of engineering and construction and will use that expertise to oversee projects including a major automotive and container expansion on Blount Island. Hazel Southwell
Charting a course to bypass Russia Carmakers have been looking for alternative routes to deliver finished vehicles and automotive parts between Europe and China since the latter invaded Ukraine. Prior to that, Russia was the preferred route for shipping cargo between the two regions because of the lower costs and lower number of customs checkpoints. Automotive Logistics
Blueprints for the rebound at North America’s vehicle ports Crisis management has become normalised for the automotive industry over two years of supply chain disruption but the North American vehicle-handling ports have withstood volatility and invested in a more sustainable recovery Marcus Williams
A sustainable supply chain inbound and out at BMW BMW Group is aiming to make the logistics supporting the production and delivery of its vehicles emission-free and has set up a Green Transport Logistics project team. Maike Rotmann, head of distribution systems and sustainability, and Wolfgang Rudorfer, head of transport planning and steering, explain more Christopher Ludwig Marcus Williams
Nissan imports first Ariya EVs through port of Tyne Nissan has started importing its Ariya electric vehicle (EV) to the UK, via the port of Tyne. The vehicles are produced at the carmaker’s Tochigi plant in Japan. Marcus Williams
Collaboration at Newark keeps inbound parts flowing Vehicle terminal operator FAPS is working with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) to unload crated automotive parts from ro-ro vessels that are also delivering vehicles to Newark port. Marcus Williams
Second quarter survey from RPM and Automotive Logistics now live Following the successful launch of a new quarterly finished vehicle survey in March this year, logistics provider RPM, in collaboration with Automotive Logistics, has now made live the next round of questions for the second quarter. Automotive Logistics
Slowing down for sustainability means sacrificing capacity Carmakers in the US are currently fighting for space to get their cars to the dealerships on time. There are a number of reasons for the lack of capacity affecting the different modes of delivery, including a shortage of haulaway drivers and rail operatives, volatile production schedules caused by ongoing parts shortage, which is affecting road and rail, and the fact that EVs are heavier vehicles to move so fewer can be shipped at the same time. Marcus Williams
Lasse Kristoffersen takes over as CEO of Wallenius Wilhelmsen Lasse Kristoffersen has taken over as president and CEO of Wallenius Wilhelmsen pledging to focus on the Norwegian ro-ro shipping provider’s digitalisation and decarbonisation priorities. Jason Dunn
Sustainable priorities at Europe’s vehicle ports Vehicle-handling ports on the European continent spent last year dealing with the fallout from the Covid pandemic and the impact of the semiconductor shortage, but that did not stop a number of them pursuing ambitious sustainability initiatives related to infrastructure. Marcus Williams reports Marcus Williams
Toyota forced to revise global production on Shanghai lockdown Toyota has been forced to extend production restrictions at plants around the world because of the parts shortages caused by the Covid lockdowns in Shanghai Marcus Williams
Clean energy around the coast The main vehicle-handling ports in the UK were dealing with volatile volumes and labour shortages last year but business continues on a more sustainable footing for the future. Marcus Williams
A gateway for growth in the Gulf Carmakers looking for a quick and cost-effective port to move their vehicle volumes in and out of the southern US have a new option at the port of Mobile on the Alabama coast, featuring a fully equipped terminal run by AutoMobile International Terminal
Survey reveals labour a big concern for the finished vehicle sector Labour shortages and the rising cost of employment are major concerns for providers of finished vehicle logistics services, according to the findings of a new quarterly survey from RPM and Automotive Logistics. Marcus Williams
A time of risk and uncertainty for vehicle logistics in Europe At this year’s General Assembly and Spring Congress for the Association for European Vehicle Logistics (ECG), members from the top outbound logistics providers and their OEM customers discussed the current disruption affecting the business and the creative solutions used to deal with it Jason Dunn
Watch: Fuelling the future of green trade Traditionally, the fuel and systems that maritime, rail and commercial vehicle operators use have depended on polluting diesel and bunker, which are now subject to both legislative restriction and rising prices. In response, transport providers on road, rail and ocean are embracing new alternative fuels
Watch: Consolations for a container shipping crisis Global port congestion, and unpredictable transit and lead times in container shipping have resulted in one of the most dismal and uncertain times for the maritime transport of goods, something that isn’t expected to improve until 2023. However, Philip Damas, managing director of Drewry Shipping Consultants advised delegates at ALSC 2022 about the mitigation strategies they could take in the interim
Global container shipping the worst for 50 years reports Drewry A continuous deterioration in the accuracy of transit and arrival times in global container shipping means the sector is in the worst state it has been in for 50 years, according to Drewry Shipping Consultants. Marcus Williams
Renault takes a rational approach to logistics network redesign The daily and multiple disruptions affecting the global automotive supply chain are forcing major carmakers to reassess the design of their supply operations. Marcus Williams
BLG upbeat on performance despite automotive losses In its latest annual financial report, BLG Logistics reports earnings in its Automobile division that are significantly below target because of continued problems in the automotive industry. However, earnings were positive and the company is investing to digitalise operations and make them more sustainable. Marcus Williams
Critical port congestion in China threatens carmakers China’s zero-Covid policy has led to a serious lockdown in Shanghai. Suppliers are unable to get key components out of the world’s busiest container port because stringent Covid-testing procedures have halted operations and there are currently record numbers of vessels waiting to dock. Namrita Chow
MAN’s energy division uses synthetic gas in commercial shipping MAN Energy Solutions has implemented a blend of synthetic natural gas to achieve emission reductions on a containership, which could pave the way for greener fuels to reduce emissions in global shipping. Jason Dunn
A carbon-neutral network for Volvo At last year’s COP26 climate conference Volvo Cars signed a declaration to phase out fossil fuels from its cars, but as Martin Corner, vice-president of global supply chain logistics, explains to Marcus Williams, that commitment to carbon cutting goes for logistics as well. Marcus Williams
Finn Roden appointed president of Autoport Finn Roden has taken over as president of vehicle terminal processor Autoport, succeeding Roy Kirchner who is stepping down after 20 years in the role. Marcus Williams
CMA CGM buys Gefco ahead of sanctions threat Container shipping line CMA CGM has bought French logistics provider Gefco for an undisclosed sum. The buyout follows an earlier statement from Gefco that it was taking back the 75% stake in its business that Russian Railways bought in 2012 for €800m ($869m). Marcus Williams Jason Dunn
Automotive logistics in Russia is in tatters Already debilitated by the impact of Covid, the Russian automotive market was hoping for better times ahead, but the invasion of Ukraine and the consequent sanctions imposed on Russia have undermined production and sales, and hit the logistics providers hard Automotive Logistics
Hyundai Glovis takes steps to prevent auto fires on ships One of the world’s biggest finished vehicle carriers, Hyundai Glovis, is strengthening measures designed to prevent and control vehicle fires onboard its pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs). This year, it plans to have all 90 of its car carriers equipped with new equipment to make the shipment of finished vehicles safer. Marcus Williams
No more rough estimates Toyota has been working to improve transparency in the delivery of its vehicles and provide its dealers with clear and concise information, but that is not all Project ETA promises says Kevin Austin, vice-president of demand and supply management at the carmaker Marcus Williams
