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Christopher Ludwig on building supply chain resilience from the inside out

As digital transformation climbs the automotive agenda, Christopher Ludwig, chief content officer at Automotive Logistics, takes to the Red Sofa at Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America to challenge assumptions about AI and unpacks what supply chain resilience really looks like.

Emily Uwemedimo

Red Sofa | Chandan Trehan at Bosch North America on failing correctly and ensuring digital fluency

Leveraging failure can be paramount to success, especially when adopting new digital processes and tools. Alongside adopting a human-centric approach, companies should be afraid of failure, Trehen argues.

Red Sofa | John Godfrey at Pirelli Tire on incorporating next-gen digital management systems

Upgrades focusing on cost control, improved ROI and predictive capabilities are at the core of Pirelli Tire North America’s digitalisation strategy. John Godfrey takes to the Red Sofa to explan the supplier’s adoption of advanced data collection and management processes.

“If logistics and IT collaborate as one, we accelerate digital transformation,” says International Motors’ Wandji

AI, alignment and accountability – how International Motors is navigating digital change from the inside out.

Forecasts for 2025 shows resilience is tested by trade volatility, EV transitions and digital fragmentation

As automotive supply chains navigate rising trade barriers, accelerating electrification and fragmented digital tools, industry leaders explored how logistics must evolve – not just to survive disruption, but to lead through it – during a panel hosted by Automotive Logistics at Transport Logistic 2025.

Emily Uwemedimo

How Nissan, Accuride and others use digitalisation to stay ahead of supply chain compliance

At Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America, executives from Nissan, Accuride, Aptiv and Greatway reveal how they are navigating escalating compliance demands with cross-functional teams, AI-driven systems and a mindset shift from firefighting to foresight.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

Emily Uwemedimo

FVL leaders rethink production, trade and capacity as long-term transitions take hold in Europe

The finished vehicle logistics (FVL) market in Europe is facing a triple shock: weakening export demand, under-utilised plants and a resurgence of protectionism on both sides of the Atlantic. But the sector’s leaders are not standing still. At the Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG)’s 2025 General Assembly and Spring Congress in Cascais, executives mapped a path that moves beyond crisis response toward strategic rewiring of trade relationships, assets and capabilities.

Emily Uwemedimo

Red Sofa | Accuride’s Skotti Fietsam on increased collaboration between logistics and IT teams

Skotti Fietsam, senior vice president, supply chain and CIO at Accuride, sat down on the Red Sofa at ALSC Digital Strategies North America to share her insights into how teams in both fields can collaborate, as well as the importance of digital tools in compliance and supply chain mapping.

JLR appoints 50 new specialists to secure ethical, resilient EV supply chains and improve traceability of critical battery materials as it transitions to full electrification by 2030

JLR is building robust supply chains for its electric future, appointing 50 new experts to trace and secure critical materials. The move supports its goal to electrify all brands by 2030 while upholding ethical standards and production stability.

Ilkhan Ozsevim

Red Sofa | Nissan’s Gerardo de la Torre on using digital tools to improve supply chain visibility

Gerardo de la Torre, regional senior director of supply chain management at Nissan Group of the Americas, expands on his Keynote from day one, answering questions about how Nissan has impletmented its supplier visibility platform and how he foresees it developing.

North American Dealers Association reports light vehicle sales slow after pre-tariff surge

The surge in US vehicle sales caused by US trade policy on vehicle imports has subsided while behind-the-scences discussions continue between US policy makers and leading vehicle makers seeking a remedy to the 25% levy.

Marcus Williams

Nissan and Stellantis supplier Marelli files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US

Automotive parts maker Marelli, which is owned by private equity firm KKR, has filed for bankruptcy while negotiating with lenders about debt proceedings, but expects no disruption to services.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

“Do it right and in the right time,” Nissan’s De la Torre says, as he details the four-pillar strategy for real-time resilience across the Americas

From regulatory risk to cyberattacks, Nissan’s senior director for supply in the Americas outlines how clarity, collaboration and digital readiness are redefining what it means to act with purpose – right and on time.

Christopher Ludwig

Emily Uwemedimo

North America’s vehicle handling ports are investing in strength to manage volatility

[Updated June 18] US vehicle import tariffs and vessel fees are causing uncertainty across North American ports but upgrades to infrastructure through 2024 have given some of the top volume processors room for manoeuvre.

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

JLR accelerates sustainable logistics through alternative fuels, digital tools and close supplier collaboration

JLR has been shifting its priorities through its Reimagine strategy in recent years, laying out a clear vision to become a carbon net zero business by 2039. While the company pushes forward in this vision, its head of freight operations is leading the way for the carmaker’s logistics operations. Automotive Logistics speaks to Levent Yuksel to discover how he is using alternative fuels and data tools to find efficiencies and opportunities for sustainability.

Megan Kelly

Automotive Inbound Logistics Survey 2025

The Automotive Inbound Logistics Survey 2025, in partnership with DP World, explores automotive inbound logistics, diving deep into the pertinent issues around tariffs, costs, digitalisation, and investment. Join the survey, win a prize, and gain access to vital insights on the challenges, constraints, and opportunities the sector faces.Take the survey

Court of Appeals allows tariffs to continue after US court rules Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ tariffs illegal

A US federal court has ruled that US president Donald Trump did not have the authority to impose ‘reciprocal’ tariffs on individual countries, blocking his planned tariffs. But just 24 hours later, the administration’s appeal of the decision has allowed the tariffs to continue until further notice.

Megan Kelly

In the face of global trade wars and tempered demand, has the battery supply chain in North America lost its charge?

The Trump administration has reversed legislation designed to bolster localised electric vehicle manufacturing and incentivise sales in the US but native and foreign carmakers continue to invest to strengthen infrastructure and supply chain.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

Toyota tops supplier relations index as Ford and Stellantis continue to decline amid rising cost and trust challenges

Plante Moran experts in supplier relations speak to Automotive Logistics about this year’s North American Automotive OEM Supplier Working Relations Index study, and why Toyota keep rising while Ford keeps falling.

Megan Kelly

Potential US tariff cuts reshape global vehicle trade talks with EU, UK, China and more

US president Donald Trump is reportedly set to lower tariff rates on countries that are negotiating in “good faith”, while imposing ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs on those who are not, according to US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent.

Megan Kelly

Europe’s EV forecast has dropped – and here’s what it means for the supply chain

As Europe’s EV transition hits regulatory and market speedbumps, automakers face tough decisions on where and how to adapt operations for the EV supply chain. From battery traceability to shifting trade flows and affordability pressures, supply chain strategies are being re-engineered in real-time.

Emily Uwemedimo

From chatbots to control towers: How OEMs and suppliers are using AI to strengthen automotive supply chains and manage risk

The use of digital strategies in automotive logistics is becoming ever more necessary to mitigate risks in an increasingly uncertain global market. With natural disasters, shaky economies, the global pandemic and economic trade on uneven ground due to tariffs and trade wars, the need to plan, predict and prevent risk is more pressing than ever to ensure a resilient supply network.

Megan Kelly

NxtPort launches the government- and port-backed Inbound Release Platform to help inbound cargo flows

(Updated 23rd May 2025) The Inbound Release Platform (IRP), which went live at the beginning of April, is now in effect at all Belgium seaports. It acts as a central data sharing site for various stakeholders including customs agents and LSPs, streamlining customs compliance.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

US-UK auto trade deal lowers vehicle import tariffs to 10% but caps UK exports at 100,000 vehicles

US-UK trade deal reduces tariffs on vehicles and steel imports with immediate effect, offering some relief for carmakers – but further details remain unclear.

Megan Kelly

Seat’s logistics director Enric Brau wants to inspire boldness in digitalisation and electrification

Enric Brau, who replaced Enric Martí as logistics director six months ago, is building on Seat’s foundation in logistics digitalisation, automation and AI to expand EV output, be more resilient and meet changing customer demands in the supply chain.

Christopher Ludwig

When disruption won’t quit, the 2025 Finished Vehicle Logistics conference shared how to stay balanced and agile

The Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2025 conference revealed how leading OEMs are redesigning logistics to thrive amid trade shocks, EV disruption and capacity constraints. From agile planning to modular networks and EV-ready lanes, Automotive Logistics unpacks the sector’s shift from fragile to future-ready.

Emily Uwemedimo

Artificially intelligent: Top 10 Red Sofa interviews on supply chain digitalisation

Industry experts from GM, Nissan, BMW and more have joined us on the Red Sofa to give their opinions on digitalisation in the automotive supply chain. Check out our list of key takeaways, which will be updated as more expertise is shared.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

Nissan is to cease Wuhan production by March 2026 amid fierce competition and financial strain in China

Nissan Motor Co. will shutter its Wuhan plant by March 2026, grappling with low output, fierce competition from Chinese EV makers, and a projected ¥750 billion ($5bn) loss. This retreat underscores the challenges facing foreign automakers in China.

Ilkhan Ozsevim

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

Thailand’s automotive supply chain under pressure from weak demand, rising tariffs and economic volatility, but investment offers hope

Thailand’s competitiveness in the ASEAN region may have faltered, but investments from major OEMs and joint ventures, and government EV incentives, could revive the market - provided the supply chain remains resilient in the face of potential US tariffs.

Megan Kelly

Audi announces production of its second-generation Q7 SUV has begun at the DRB-Hicom manufacturing plant in Malaysia

In a move to strengthen regional supply chain resilience, Audi has begun local production of its Q7 SUV at Malaysia’s DRB-Hicom facility, the brand’s first fully localised assembly project in South-East Asia. The current output for the Pekan plant is at three vehicles per day, but with the expectation of this rising to 5,000 units per annum.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

Opinion: Tariff shockwaves, investment freezes and cost pressure reshape global automotive logistics in 2025

The automotive industry is reeling from the US’s hugely disruptive reset of the world economic order, and this will have profound ramifications for logistics providers around the world. Daniel Harrison, inhouse automotive analyst, Automotive Logistics, explains what Trump’s tariffs will mean for the automotive industry.

Daniel Harrison

US-China tariff escalation disrupts rare earth exports and puts pressure on automotive supply chains

The trade conflict between the US and China has entered a volatile new phase, with potential ‘reciprocal’ tariffs rising as high as 245% and a new suspension of China’s rare earth mineral exports adding further uncertainty for the global automotive industry. Manufacturers and suppliers face increasing costs and supply chain risks as critical vehicle components, including batteries and electronics, are caught in the crossfire.

Marcus Williams

Megan Kelly

Trump’s 25% vehicle import tariffs could cost US carmakers $108bn and cut output by 17.7m vehicles

As automotive supply chains across North America (and the world) come to terms with Trump’s current and upcoming tariffs and how to navigate them by restructuring their supply networks, the potential impact on vehicle sales and production volumes is beginning to sink in.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa interview | Nissan’s Ben Shain on optimising delivery performance and carrier collaboration

Ben Shain, senior manager of vehicle logistics at Nissan North America, shares how the carmaker is driving performance improvements across its outbound logistics network by enhancing pipeline visibility, improving forecasting, and working in close collaboration with its carrier partners.

Red Sofa interview | International’s Tony Stinsa on the realities of EV truck logistics

Tony Stinsa, director of inbound and finished vehicle logistics at International, shares the logistical challenges in transporting electric commercial trucks and the innovations needed to move zero-emission vehicles more sustainably.

Red Sofa interview | Nissan’s Todd Myers on optimising FVL through data, digital tools and holistic planning

Todd Myers, director of finished vehicle logistics North America at Nissan, shares how the carmaker is continuously optimising logistics with data-led tools, system-wide planning and a focus on agility, skills and visibility.

Red Sofa interview | GM’s Amy Paulsen shares how lessons from EV start-ups are accelerating agility, innovation and infrastructure across GM’s FVL

Amy Paulsen, director of finished vehicle logistics at GM, joins the Red Sofa at FVL North America to discuss how the company is modernising its logistics systems, digitalising its networks and strengthening EV infrastructure to support its growing electric vehicle portfolio. Drawing on her experience in EV start-ups, she highlights how GM is applying new thinking and technologies to build a more agile and resilient supply chain.

Anu Goel on how Volkswagen Group of America’s regional strategy is mitigating tariff disruption and transforming vehicle logistics

Simplified metrics, regional teamwork and agile tools: VW’s Anu Goel shares how logistics is powering resilience across borders, at this years’ FVL North America 2025 conference.

How Trump’s changing tariffs are disrupting automotive supply chains across China, Mexico, Canada and the EU

Following a week of negotiations and trade wars, Automotive Logistics looks at what has changed for the automotive supply chain globally, and what effects are already being seen in regional supply networks.

Megan Kelly

“Staying the course”: USMCOC’s Zapanta unpacks tariffs, automotive trade and North American integration

With tariffs on parts approaching and political uncertainty mounting, Albert Zapanta of the United States-Mexico Chamber of Commerce (USMCOC) explores how the US and Mexico are navigating trade, supply chain pressures and long-term planning. For the automotive industry, staying steady may be the smartest move.

Emily Uwemedimo

EV logistics, charging infrastructure and strategic decision-making take centre stage on the final day of FVL North America 2025

Christopher Ludwig, chief content officer at Automotive Logistics, wraps up the final day of Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2025 with key insights into electric vehicle logistics, charging constraints, quality control and strategic resilience amid uncertainty.

Reimagining Finished Vehicle Logistics: Key Themes from Day 1 at FVL North America 2025

Christopher Ludwig, chief content officer at Automotive Logistics, wraps up the first full day of sessions at Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2025. From regional strategies to VIN-level visibility, he reflects on how the sector is reimagining itself in the face of continuous disruption, evolving partnerships and rising quality expectations.

FVL North America 2025 opens with optimism, strategy and connection amid trade uncertainty

Christopher Ludwig shares insights from the welcome drinks reception of FVL North America 2025, as the vehicle logistics sector tackles tariffs, technology and transformation.

Trump’s “Liberation Day” automotive import tariffs disrupt global production, logistics and investment strategies

US president Donald Trump has announced sweeping tariffs on automotive imports on Wednesday, imposing 25% tariffs on vehicle imports immediately, and 25% tariffs on parts imports from next month.

Megan Kelly

March 26 set the wheels in motion, here’s what’s coming before tariff D-Day on April 2

New US tariffs are set to begin April 2, starting with a 25% duty on imported vehicles. Analysts warn the staggered rollout could cripple production, spike prices and send supply chains into long-term disarray – especially for OEMs navigating EV shifts and global competition.

Emily Uwemedimo

Daniel Harrison

Red Sofa interview | Audi and Helrom discuss scaling sustainable rail logistics at ALSC Europe

In this Red Sofa interview, Audi and Helrom discuss the future of multimodal logistics and the power of collaboration in decarbonisation.

Red Sofa interview | Autoliv’s Gisela Linge on empowering women, driving AI transformation, and reshaping supply chains

How AI, digitalisation, and inclusion are transforming supply chains. Autoliv’s Dr Gisela Linge shares insights from AL Europe 2025.

The race before the border closes, as auto logistics braces for a 25% tariff reckoning

[Updated 1 April] Automakers and logistics providers are scrambling to move vehicles before the US imposes a 25% tariff on automotive imports. With USMCA exemptions narrowing and global supply chains under pressure, manufacturers face a costly and complex reckoning.

Emily Uwemedimo

Red Sofa interview | Schaeffler’s digitalisation strategy: AI, collaboration and the future of supply chain transformation

AI is reshaping supply chains. Schaeffler’s Fabian Pobantz explores digitalisation, collaboration, and innovation at ALSC Europe 2025.

Red Sofa interview | Levent Yuksel on JLR’s push for greener corridors and industry-wide logistics collaboration

Levent Yuksel explores JLR’s approach to sustainability, the role of green corridors, and the need for industry-wide cooperation.

How Europe’s automotive supply chain is embracing digitalisation, collaboration and sustainability to drive agility and long-term success

European OEMs, tier-suppliers and LSPs are co-creating smarter supply chains with digital tools, data sharing and decarbonisation strategies. At Automotive Logistics & supply Chain Europe 2025, they shared their exclusive insights, strategies, and advice.

Megan Kelly

Renault embeds circular economy principles in packaging to cut emissions and logistics costs across its global supply chain

Renault is actively embedding circular economy principles into its industrial packaging strategy, aiming to reduce waste, optimise logistics and extend the lifespan of packaging assets across its global operations.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa interview | Crafting luxury and moving with precision, Aston Martin meets the challenges of low-volume logistics and high-complexity supply chains

Aston Martin’s supply chain management involves overcoming the hurdles of low-volume production and bespoke designs. Martin Corner explains how the company is stabilising its supply chain, enhancing data transparency and finding efficiencies while maintaining luxury quality standards.

Red Sofa interview | Toyota Motor Europe’s head of parts supply chain shares approach to complex service parts demands

Toyota’s approach to service parts logistics is focused on reliability and efficiency, ensuring dealers always have the right parts at the right time. Karel Verpoorten outlines how Toyota is adapting to evolving market demands with a flexible, customer-first strategy.

Red Sofa interview | Peter Hörndlein on how VW is building a more flexible, sustainable and future-ready vehicle logistics network

Peter Hörndlein outlines VW’s flexible logistics strategy, from tackling disruption to investing in sustainable transport solutions.

Red Sofa interview | GKN Automotive’s Chris Payne on co-creation, visibility and sustainable logistics partnerships for the future

GKN’s Chris Payne discusses logistics partnerships, data visibility and sustainable freight at ALSC Europe 2025.

Red Sofa interview | Renault’s Jean-Marc Carlicchi on AI, control towers and reshaping supply chain strategy with digital visibility and smarter planning

Discover how Renault is boosting resilience and dynamic planning with AI-driven control towers for inbound and outbound logistics.

Red Sofa interview | BMW’s Nadine Philipp on how sustainability and decarbonisation are shaping BMW Group’s supplier network and logistics strategy

Discover BMW’s approach to CO2 reduction in the supply chain and logistics with Nadine Philipp at ALSC Europe 2025.

ILA and USMX sign six-year Master Contract securing wage increases and controls on automation

In the latest development in the dispute between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the US Maritime Alliance (USMX), both parties have reached an agreement on a new six-year master agreement, subject to review and ratification by members on both sides.

Megan Kelly

Marcus Williams

VinFast’s logistics strategy for rapid parts delivery and operational excellence in Europe and ASEAN

In an industry where aftersales service and agile logistics can differentiate market leaders from emerging challengers, VinFast, the Vietnamese automotive manufacturer, primarily known for its bold entry into EV vehicle production, is now making strategic waves by reimaging its logistics profile. With a focus on European market penetration and an emphasis on customer-centric service, VinFast shares with Automotive Logistics how it is investing in robust service parts delivery networks and retooling its shipping methods.

Emily Uwemedimo

US to impose global tariffs of 25% on steel and aluminium imports; European Commission announces retaliatory levies

[Updated March 13] The decision by Trump to impose tariffs on European imports of the metals, affecting more than €8 billion-worth of EU exports, adds to tariffs on other exports worth €18 billion.

Marcus Williams

How nearshoring and battery localisation are reshaping Europe’s EV supply chain amid shifting demand, Chinese competition, and policy shifts

With battery investments in flux, Europe’s OEMs push for local supply chains amid geopolitical shifts and Chinese EV competition.

Megan Kelly

Audi’s supply chain in 2033 and beyond: Designed to combine logistics, automation and people

Dieter Braun and his team know exactly where they want Audi’s supply chain to be over the next decade, even if technology and conditions will vary by plant and region.

Christopher Ludwig

Exemptions will apply to carmakers in line with USMCA, following talks with GM, Ford, Stellantis

The US has officially imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, giving carmakers a one-month exemption if they comply with USMCA, while imposing additional 20% tariffs on China. With OEMs and suppliers already navigating tight margins, these measures are set to significantly increase costs, disrupt supply chains, and force strategic shifts in North American manufacturing and logistics.

Megan Kelly

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

Economic headwinds shake CEE automotive logistics as cost pressures, nearshoring, and geopolitical shifts reshape supply chains

The economic crosswinds sweeping across the continent threaten to stir into a big storm for the automotive industry in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Automotive Logistics explores how, in the face of uncertainty, logistics providers are streamlining their operations.

Vladislav Vorotnikov

Dieter Braun on how Audi is turning supply chain motion into progress

In the first part of a special interview series, read how Audi is confronting challenges in the automotive market with an emphasis on a holistic supply chain function that makes a positive contribution to the carmaker’s production and products. Head of supply chain Dieter Braun reveals how logistics can add value across the order-to-delivery process.

Christopher Ludwig

Carmakers working with robot suppliers to test flexible humanoids for lineside logistics operations

Carmakers are bringing humanoids onto the factory floor and using the latest software to help them function and learn in complex lineside environments.

Marcus Williams

How smarter packaging design is becoming a competitive advantage in autonomous automotive logistics

Packaging has historically been a siloed aspect of the automotive supply chain that hasn’t evolved in pace with the rest of the industry, but evolution from the status quo could be forced to take place, as existing packaging is not compatible with logistics automation. Automotive Logistics explores why the industry needs to start viewing packaging as a strategic function, and how it could give OEMs a competitive advantage through increasing efficiency and sustainability.

Megan Kelly

Flexis optimises electric van production with shared platform and localised supply chain in Europe

Flexis, a joint venture between Renault Group, Volvo Group and CMA CGM, has unveiled its new range of electric light commercial vehicles; three models all sharing a skateboard platform. Scheduled to begin production this year, the company is making use of its logistics expertise through a dedicated localisation strategy in Europe. Automotive Logistics reports from the Flexis headquarters in Paris.

Megan Kelly

Trump’s reciprocal trade tariffs set to reshape global automotive supply chains and disrupt industry investment

The US aims to impose reciprocal tariffs around the world, triggering potential trade wars that could impact automotive logistics networks and dampen investment.

Megan Kelly

Why regionalisation, digital innovation and sustainability are the key to BMW San Luis Potosí’s resilient supply chain

BMW’s San Luis Potosí embodies a forward-looking approach to supply chain resilience, leveraging regional suppliers, smart supply chains and sustainability. Automotive Logistics explores how the plant tackles logistical challenges to set industry benchmarks.

Ilkhan Ozsevim

Automotive Logistics livestream on trends to watch in 2025: How trade shifts, tariffs and tech are reshaping networks

The first in this year’s series of Automotive Logistics livestreams focused on key trends to watch out for in 2025, including changing trade compliance, regulations and tariffs.

Megan Kelly

The “great divergence” reshapes vehicle production and logistics in Europe amid market forces, Chinese OEMs and tariff shifts

The European automotive market is at an inflection point. Lower vehicle volumes post-pandemic, a shift from net exports to net imports and the growing influence of Chinese manufacturers are fundamentally changing the region’s logistics dynamics. Meanwhile, tariffs and localisation efforts are altering trade flows. As automakers and logistics providers adapt, the success of their strategies will determine who thrives in this new era of European automotive supply chains.

Emily Uwemedimo

Jack Cooper and GM relationship breaks down, leaving hauler to wind down operations

Following concerns about its relationship with two of its biggest clients, Jack Cooper is reportedly winding down operations.

Megan Kelly

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

How the automotive industry is tracking and reducing logistics and supply chain emissions

As global standards shift and geopolitical factors influence logistics, OEMs and suppliers must implement more sophisticated tracking methods to comply with emissions mandates. From the European Union’s stringent policies to China’s evolving standards and the uncertainty in US regulations, understanding the latest emissions reporting frameworks and digital solutions is crucial for a sustainable and competitive automotive logistics sector.

Megan Kelly

Automotive OEMs are slashing costs amid margin squeeze and market shifts in 2025

The automotive supply chain is in constant flux, and this year it’s facing many growing challenges. Following on from our reporting of key automotive logistics trends for 2025, we are diving deeper into the cost pressures OEMs are facing, and how they are cost-cutting across their operations and supply chain to reduce the financial pressure.

Daniel Harrison

The UK automotive sector confronts investment challenges, trade barriers, and the drive for electrification amid economic and regulatory shifts

Despite record EV sales and billions in investment, UK automotive faces intensifying global competition, trade risks, and regulatory hurdles. As political and economic shifts unfold, the sector must secure its position despite volatility. AL attends SMMT’s annual press briefing to bring you the latest.

Ilkhan Ozsevim

Expert perspectives on nearshoring: Top 10 Red Sofa interviews on supply chain strategy

The strategy of nearshoring is reshaping supply chains, bringing immense opportunities and challenges to the forefront. We sat down on the Red Sofa with experts leading the trend across the automotive supply chain.

Megan Kelly

North American supply chain under Trump: How the IRA pause affects the EV supply chain

As Trump halts EV incentives, North America’s EV supply chain faces uncertainty. Automotive Logistics explores the logistics and market implications.

Megan Kelly

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

Global automotive industry shifts intensify challenges for logistics providers

The automotive supply chain is facing many hurdles this year, as set out in our key automotive logistics trends for 2025. Here, we look deeper at the fragmented nature of the industry, structural changes in flows and demand, and the effects of job losses in the second part of our series.

Daniel Harrison

Automotive logistics and supply chains in 2025: Challenges, cost pressures & nearshoring

As the automotive industry enters 2025, three primary trends are reshaping the landscape for logistics providers. These trends highlight the challenges and opportunities resulting from industry restructuring, cost pressures, and evolving trade dynamics. Before we dive into each, here’s an executive summary.

Daniel Harrison

What day one under the Trump administration signals for the North American automotive supply chain

Donald Trump, who was sworn in as president of the US yesterday, said that his administration is planning to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada from 1 February, threatening the North American automotive supply chain.

Megan Kelly

Outgoing Biden Administration rules to ban import of Chinese and Russian connected vehicle technology

Outgoing Biden Administration rules prohibit the sale and import of connected vehicle hardware and software systems, as well as completed connected vehicles.

Marcus Williams

Flooding caused by climate change is set to be the biggest threat to the automotive supply chain in 2025

Climate change, and particularly flooding, will be the biggest threat to the supply chain in 2025, according to analysis by Everstream Analytics.

Megan Kelly

Ford unexpectedly drops Jack Cooper mid-contract, with Teamsters union urging OEM to reconsider

Ford has unexpectedly ended its agreement with North American vehicle hauler Jack Cooper mid-contract.

Megan Kelly

Volkswagen to cut production in Germany and reduce staff across factories, with Golf production moved to Mexico

Following some intense negotiations through December, Volkswagen reached an agreement with its Works Council and the IG Metall union just before the Christmas break that will see it cut 35,000 jobs by 2030 and reduce production capacity by 734,000 units

Marcus Williams

Seismic shifts in the global trade of electric vehicles: 2024 in review

The car industry is going through a volatile adaptation as it seeks to decarbonise mobility and clean up the logistics supporting production. This year it has also been dealing with trade and labour disruption but the focus is adamantly on a more resilient supply chain and the adoption of digital technology.

Marcus Williams

Top automotive logistics Red Sofa insights of 2024: Sustainability, digitalisation, nearshoring and robotics strategies from leading OEMs

As 2024 draws to a close, we’re looking back at some of our best Red Sofa interviews from this year, where we spoke to experts across the globe about automotive logistics and strategies for success in the supply chain.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa interview | Digitalisation and Diversity: Saba Azizi on CATL’s strategy for success in EMEA

At the Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies Europe conference in Munich, Saba Azizi, Overseas Service Network and Development Manager for CATL, shared her remarkable journey from Iran to her pivotal role at the world’s largest EV battery company.

GM’s strategy to tackle EV logistics challenges: Digitalisation, nearshoring, and improving supplier relations

Strengthening supplier relationships, nearshoring strategies and digitalisation are enabling GM to enhance supply chain resilience across North America. From securing critical EV components to optimising cross-border logistics, the carmaker is fostering innovation and operational efficiency amid growing challenges.

Megan Kelly

Mexico will retaliate against Trump’s tariffs, says international trade expert

Mexico and Canada have warned the US against a trade war following president-elect Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on all goods being imported into the country from Mexico and Canada.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa interview | Daimler Truck’s Marion Gillich on tracking supplier risk with AI and digital tools

Marion Gillich, head of supplier risk management at Daimler Truck took to the Red Sofa at ALSC Digital Strategies Europe to discuss the company’s digital transformation, including how Daimler collects data from suppliers and uses it to predict and manage supplier risk.

Red Sofa interview | John Torres on how Mercedes-Benz uses data quality to drive AI-powered efficiency

John Torres took to the Red Sofa at ALSC Digital Strategies Europe to discuss how Mercedes-Benz prioritises data quality as a strategic necessity rather than a supplementary function. By monitoring real-time metrics such as data completeness, transparency, and analysis, the organisation ensures that its processes are precise and aligned with business objectives. This foundational step underpins the integration of AI and analytics across the company’s operations.

Red Sofa interview | Harry Davies on building resilient supply chains through DEI

Join us on the Red Sofa at ALSC Digital Strategies Europe as Harry Davies, a senior procurement, logistics and supply chain expert with over a decade of experience, shares his expertise on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the automotive sector.

Red Sofa interview | Seat’s Alexandre Lerma and Jorge Miguel Corral Díaz discuss how Vortex AI is driving logistics innovation

At ALSC Digital Strategies Europe 2024, Seat’s Alexandre Lerma and Jorge Miguel Corral Díaz described how the carmaker is revolutionising logistics with its Human AI strategy, leveraging Vortex AI to enhance data quality, streamline operations and foster cross-functional collaboration.

Red Sofa interview | BMW’s Carolin Richter on the OEM’s humanoid robots redefining automotive logistics

At ALSC Digital Strategies Europe in Munich, BMW’s Carolin Richter, head of next generation robotics, spoke about humanoid and multi-purpose robots capable of automating intricate logistics tasks that were previously deemed impossible.

Red Sofa interview | JC Deville on how Toyota is driving digitalisation in vehicle logistics

Toyota Motor Europe’s vice-president of supply chain, Jean-Christophe Deville, shares key insights on Toyota’s innovative projects aimed at enhancing vehicle logistics through digitalisation.

Red Sofa interview | Paulina Chmielarz on how JLR drives digital transformation across supply chain operations

Paulina Chmielarz, digital innovation director for Industrial Operations at JLR, shares key milestones and innovations driving the carmaker’s ambitious transformation across supply chain, manufacturing, and procurement.

Jean-Christophe Deville on digital strategies in Toyota Motor Europe’s mega hub

Toyota Motor Europe’s digitalisation strategy involves collaboration, precision and leveraging its mega hub to move into performance mode.

Megan Kelly

Mexico’s port and rail network has improved since the failures in 2023 with expanded terminals and tracks

Veracruz port has dealt with last year’s congestion problems by adding capacity for more than 30,000 vehicles and there have also been improvements to previously disrupted rail services, according to speakers at this year’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Mexico conference

Marcus Williams

Carlos Tavares resigns at time of critical decision-making for the carmaker

The departure of Carlos Tavares as CEO of Stellantis has left the carmaker looking for new leader at a critical time.

Marcus Williams

Daniel Harrison

Red Sofa interview | Javier Valadez on Paccar Mexico’s EV supply chain innovations

Javier Valadez, director of operations at Paccar Mexico takes to the Red Sofa in Mexico to share how the carmaker is leveraging Mexico’s role as a production hub to expand EV capabilities.

Volkswagen union workers in Germany launch warning strike, threatening VW’s supply chain

Thousands of Volkswagen workers at nine of the OEM’s factories in Germany have begun rolling two-hour strikes after the carmaker announced plans to close at least three factories in the country.

Megan Kelly

Analysis: Automotive logistics providers are experiencing increasing cost pressures

Cost pressures across automotive logistics are escalating as OEMs prioritise profitability to finance EV transitions and counter rising competition.

Daniel Harrison

Red Sofa interview | GM’s Monica Garcia on EV expansion and long-term collaboration

Monica Garcia, GM’s director of global purchasing and supply chain in Mexico, shares insights into the company’s EV strategy, resilient supply chains, and long-term supplier partnerships at ALSC Mexico 2024.

Red Sofa Interview | Kia México’s multidimensional approach to logistics, customs and purchasing

Ricardo Ortega Márquez, senior manager for purchasing, customs and logistics at Kia México takes to the Red Sofa at ALSC Mexico 2024 to discuss the innovative strategies driving the OEM’s success.

The UK government is set to review its ZEV mandate, while Stellantis looks to close its plant in Vauxhall

The UK government is fast-tracking a consultation on ending the sales of new ICE vehicles by 2030, due to the UK automotive industry’s grievances about the Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate.

Megan Kelly

Christopher Ludwig

How Trump’s promised tariffs on Mexico and Canada could threaten the North American auto supply chain

Donald Trump, the US president-elect, has vowed to impose a 25% tariff on all goods being imported into the country from Mexico and Canada, deepening fears for the automotive industry in North America and threatening the trend of nearshoring.

Megan Kelly

Red Sofa | Adapting vehicle logistics: Carlos Eudave on building resilient networks for Nissan Mexico

Nissan Mexico’s head of FVL, Carlos Eudave, took to the Red Sofa at Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico 2024.

How Nissan is reinventing supply chain partnerships in a nearshoring era: Red Sofa insights from Dayan León, parts logistics subdirector

Dayan León, parts logistics subdirector at Nissan Motor Corporation, shares how nearshoring is reshaping partnerships in the automotive supply chain, highlighting the importance of trust, flexibility, and digitalisation in building resilient logistics strategies for the future.

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

Mexico needs a long-term framework of certainty to make good on its future as North America’s automotive hub

The majority of Mexico’s vehicle and parts output goes to the wider North American market and that demand is increasing, but to keep up with that demand automotive companies need to work more closely with the government to improve infrastructure and security, according to speakers at the tenth Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Mexico conference.

Marcus Williams

Audi supply chain leaders talk global supply chain and manufacturing alignment, and the need for logistics power

At this year’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Mexico conference supply chain leaders from Audi talked about the reciprocal benefits of a global strategy with a local approach.

Marcus Williams

Red Sofa | Rubén Ballesteros on how MG Mexico drives growth with innovative logistics strategies

MG México has been expanding and building out its supply chain by tailoring it to the Mexican market. In a Red Sofa interview at Automotive Logsitics & Supply Chain Mexico 2024, its head of logistics, Rubén Ballesteros, spoke to Automotive Logistics’ chief content officer about the company’s ability to make flexible decisions faster and its future plans in the country.

BMW’s sustainable packaging solutions for overseas component shipping: when cardboard is worth more than gold

In the automotive industry, it’s not just about propulsion and driving dynamics. Sometimes, it’s the subtle things that make a difference – especially when it comes to sustainability. Here’s the story of a cardboard box that goes on a world tour.

Andrea Hoffmann-Topp