Tag: europe

Toyota is using hydrogen fuel cell trucks supplied by VDL Groep for parts distribution in Europe

Toyota has added four more hydrogen fuel cell trucks for automotive parts distribution between its European parts centre in Belgium and locations in France, Germany and the Netherlands.

Stellantis distributes service parts to UK and Ireland from newly built facility in Ellesmere Port

Stellantis is now distributing service parts across the UK and Ireland from a newly built facility in Ellesmere Port which promises more efficient and sustainble aftermarket logistics.

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.

Neptune Land Services to begin car terminal operations at Port-La-Nouvelle from the beginning of 2026

Neptune Land Services will start operations at a newly built vehicle temrinal in southern France from Q1 2026 able to process 200,000 vehicles annually.

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.

Car and truck makers are adapting transport planning to increase the use of electric vehicles

The rise of the electric passenger car has a longer history than most suppose but now carmakers are engaged with making inbound and outbound transport modes electric as well, which makes for a greener supply chain altogether.

Day two of ALSC Digital Strategies North America saw AI, data visibility, and compliance as key talking points

As our guests gathered to round off the conference with peers last night at our evening drinks reception on the Carlton Terrace, our Chief Content Officer Christopher Ludwig managed to take a few moments away from the bustle to catch you all up on the discussions from the day as ALSC Digital Strategies North America drew to a close for another year.

Plus Automation and Churchill IX merge to form PlusAI, with AI-led virtual drivers for autonomous trucking

An AI-based autonomous trucking software has seen success in trials completed with DSV and IVECO. PlusAI, the company behind the software, eyes partnerships with OEMs such as Traton Group and Hyundai as integral to scaling adoption.

Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America 2025 - Day one wrap up

As our guests gathered to continue the conversations and catch up with peers last night at our evening drinks reception, hosted by Cognosos, Inc., our Chief Content Officer Christopher Ludwig managed to take a few moments away from the bustle to catch you all up on the discussions being had and what to expect from day two.

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.

A shortage of rare earth magnets caused by limited Chinese exports has potential to disrupt global supply chains

Rare earth magnets are used throughout vehicle components, and their supply can be a key part of inbound planning. However, the global supply of the magnets has dwindled after China introduced stricter export restrictions in April, prompting concerns about a shortage.

UECC adds dual-fuel LNG vessel to European network along with third Turkish port call

UECC has added another dual-fuel LNG vessel to its network connecting northern Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as adding a third Turkish port in answer to demand for more sustainable finished vehicle services.

As part of cost and cash action plan, Volvo Cars announces almost 3,000 jobs lost in move to become leaner

The plan seeks to reduce Volvo Cars’ expenditure by SEK 18 billion ($1.8 billion), with this first wave of redundancies primarily impacting Swedish employees. Further restructuring and job losses are expected elsewhere as the carmaker conducts an internal strategic review.

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.

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.

Toyota is considering moving production of the GR Corolla from Japan to the UK

While the news is not yet official, sources say that Toyota will add an additional production line to its Burnaston plant to try and meet demand for the sports model. If the move goes ahead, production is expected to begin mid-2026.

Automotive Logistics magazine – Summer 2025

The Automotive Logistics Summer 2025 issue dives deep into the forces reshaping the industry – from digital transformation and port reinvention to next-gen sustainability. This essential edition offers exclusive insights, high-level interviews, and global analysis designed to help logistics professionals stay ahead in an era of rapid change.Purchase print edition

ChargePoint and Eaton announce a new collaboration aimed at tackling insufficient EV charging infrastructure

The partnership allows the two companies to provide end-to-end solutions for EV infrastructure, including charging stations and engineering services. The goal is to roll these offerings out across the US, Canada and the UK.

Charged up: Top 10 Red Sofa interviews on EV and battery logistics

Experts from across the automotive logistics industry have sat down on the Red Sofa and shared their insights into the most pressing topics surrounding EVs and batteries. This list provides key takeaways and will be updated as more Red Sofas are released, so make sure to follow along.

Ceva Logistics using Stradot conveyor robots for vehicle handling at Nanteuil-le-Haudouin facility

Ceva Logistics will start using automated robot conveyors to move vehicles at its distribution yard in Nanteuil-le-Haudouin from September this year.

Panattoni completes work on Mercedes-Benz’s International Consolidation Centre

[Updated May 27] Mercedes-Benz is ready to open its International Consolidation Centre in Germany, which will bundle and preassemble parts for distribution to its global production locations.

Christophe Campe takes over as head of automotive for Chep in Europe and North America

Chep has promoted Christophe Campe as its head of automotive for Europe and North America. Campe brings more than 30 years experience at Chep to the new role.

BMW Group is using AI tools for Purchasing and Supplier Network from tech centre in Romania

BMW Group is developing GenAI applications for its Purchasing and Supplier Network at a tech hub in Romania focused on monitoring supply chain data.

NYK to operate automated finished vehicle facility at the port of Barcelona port from 2027

Port de Barcelona has awarded NYK a concession to operate a inished vehicle logistics terminal that will feature a fully automated, multilevel parking facility, due to become operational in 2027.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen and Bertel O. Steen will work together on a new vehicle processing centre at the port of Drammen

Drammen port in Norway is to benefit from a new vehicle processing centre which is being built and will be operated by a joint venture between Wallenius Wilhelmsen and Bertel O. Steen.

CATL to raise $4bn in Hong Kong listing to fund Debrecen EV battery gigafactory in Europe

Chinese EV battery maker CATL has said it is set to raise at least $4bn in its secondary listing on the Hong Kong stock exchange, to fund its giigafactory in Debrecen, Hungary.

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.

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.

Ceva Logistics acquires Turkish logistics company Borusan Tedarik for $440m, doubling its footprint in the region

CEVA Logistics continues to grow “bigger, stronger and smarter”, as the company announces it acquires Borusan Tedarik, a logistics company in Turkey. The move almost doubles CEVA’s operations in the country.

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.

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.

Kuehne+Nagel and Changan partner on EV battery and spare parts logistics for European aftermarket

Kuehne+Nagel is set to deliver EV supply chain support for Changan in Europe, focusing on spare parts and end-of-life battery logistics.

Localisation hopes fade for Russia as it struggles to attract China

Russia’s efforts to boost domestic vehicle production by courting Chinese automakers are running into obstacles, from economic volatility to strategic caution among OEMs. As Russian policymakers push new incentives, analysts warn that structural challenges could undermine the country’s localisation ambitions.

How digital tools and real-time data are transforming automotive supply chains through improved integration, transparency and compliance

Automotive leaders explore data silos, compliance and supplier risk ahead of Automotive Logistics’ livestream on data silos, security and sovereignty.

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.

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.

European Union imposes retaliatory tariffs on $20bn of US goods in response to Trump’s steel and aluminium duties

The European Commission’s proposal to introduce trade countermeasures against the US steel and aluminium tariffs has been approved by European Union member states, following a meeting with automotive industry representatives including BMW, VW Group and Stellantis.

Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2025 Golf day

BMW’s Debrecen plant accelerates EV production with just-in-sequence delivery and virtual assembly planning

BMW’s Debrecen plant is using digitalisation and just-in-sequence delivery to speed towards series production of the iX3.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK is getting ready to launch its first European recycling factory in the UK

Toyota is launching is European recycling initiative in the UK with the launch of its Toyota Circular Factory at the Burnaston plant in Q3 this year, which will supply 120,000 recycled parts to the aftermarket.

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.

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.

Key takeaways on how automotive packaging is evolving to meet the triple challenge: sustainability, cost efficiency and EV readiness

Philip Bittermann, editor-in-chief of Neue Verpackung, explores the evolving automotive packaging landscape. Focusing on sustainability, cost efficiency and the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), he discusses the new challenges and solutions the industry must adopt to stay ahead. From reusable packaging to adapting to lithium ecosystems, the future of automotive logistics depends on innovation and efficiency.

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.

Association of European Vehicle Logistics hosts dinner debate on the impact of decarbonising automotive operations

The Association of European Vehicle Logistics gathered members, policy makers and key stakeholders in Brussels on March 18 to discuss the European Commission’s Action Plan for the Future of the European Automotive Industry, with a focus on compliance with regulation on decarbonisation.

Smurfit Kappa’s compact bumper packaging solution halves truckloads, cuts emissions, and streamlines assembly for automotive suppliers

Automotive suppliers can replace their existing bumper packaging with a compact solution halves truckloads, reduces emissions, and saves storage space. At the same time, an automatic floor speeds up assembly.

Grimaldi has grown its fleet of hybrid short-sea ro-ro vessels to 14 with the addition of the Eco Napoli

Grimaldi’s latest hybrid-power ro-ro vessel will arrive in the Mediterranean from China in May this year and will support services calling between Italy, Greece and Turkey

Automotive Logistics magazine – Spring 2025

This Spring Issue offers an in-depth analysis of the trends and innovations shaping the industry, with a focus on supply chain strategies and resilience, emissions control, packaging, European port review, digitalisation, EV localisation, European market overview, and more.Purchase print edition

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.

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.

How MSC is driving efficiency and sustainability in automotive logistics with intermodal solutions and customer-focused supply chain strategies

Ahead of ALSC Europe 2025, Johanna Wrage, global accounts automotive deputy manager at MSC discusses company’s role in enhancing global automotive supply chains through intermodal solutions and customer-centric service.

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.

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.

ALSC Europe 2025 - Highlights video

ALSC Europe 2025: Conference Day 2 wrap-up

Christopher Ludwig, chief content officer, Automotive Logistics closes out the final day of the ALSC Europe 2025 conference in Bonn…

ALSC Europe 2025: Conference Day 1 wrap-up

Christopher Ludwig, Chief Content Officer at Automotive Logistics, takes us to the Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Europe exclusive Networking Dinner after a full day packed with cutting-edge insights, insightful discussions, and networking…

ALSC Europe 2025: Welcome Cocktail Reception

Christopher Ludwig, Chief Content Officer at Automotive Logistics and Ultima Media, takes us to the Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Europe exclusive Welcome Coctkail Reception and discusses key agenda topics fo this year’s event…

Breaking new ground: How Helrom’s Block Train is transforming Audi’s supply chain network

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Logistics in partnership with Helrom.Helrom is redefining supply chain logistics with an innovative intermodal system that slashes emissions and improves efficiency.

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.

Germany’s Packaging Act is forcing OEMs to prioritise recyclability

The automotive industry is under growing pressure to reduce packaging waste in compliance with Germany’s Packaging Act. Stricter regulations require manufacturers to register, track and improve the recyclability of packaging used across their supply chains.

Watch: Dr Rainer Kiefer discusses cost pressures, supply chain resilience, and the future of global automotive logistics

Ahead of ALSC Europe 2025, DB Schenker’s Dr Rainer Kiefer explains how the logistics company is tackling supply chain costs, disruptions, and nearshoring trends in the fast-changing automotive industry.

Audi’s supply chain organisation: Logistics and the 360factory strategy

Under Dieter Braun, Audi’s Supply Chain function is highly integrated with objectives closely aligned to the carmaker’s 360factory strategy, including for sustainability, cost control and flexibility.

Infographic: A snapshot of Audi’s production network and supply chain

Audi’s manufacturing and logistics network spans multiple continents across its own plants and shared facilities with the Volkswagen Group and partners, all of which is undergoing significant changes. Learn more about each location and the logistics and transport complexity that supports it.

BMW Dingolfing improves packaging efficiency with AI-powered container management

The OEM’s German plant has partnered with Landshut University of Applied Sciences to develop an AI tool that makes container management more efficient.

Watch: CNW Global’s strategy for resilient automotive supply chains

With global disruptions on the rise, agility and resilience are key to navigating supply chain challenges. Ahead of ALSC Europe 2025, Thomas Blank, vice president, EMEA at CNW Global shares how the company bridges the gap between planning and execution. He discusses industry challenges, CNW’s approach to supply chain integrity, and key trends shaping the future.

Ukraine agrees to preliminary agreement to provide US with 50% of critical mineral revenue

Despite an unfavourable clash at the White House last Friday, Ukraine remains open to a framework agreement with the US to provide 50% of revenue from critical mineral deposits and relevant infrastructure in exchange for continued support and security guarantees in its war with Russia.

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.

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.

BMW’s hydrogen strategy embraces a technology-agnostic approach to reshape automotive logistics

With increasing regulatory pressures and the urgent need to decarbonise operations, automotive leaders are exploring a range of technologies to future-proof their fleets. BMW Group’s latest move – introducing its first hydrogen-powered trucks as part of the European H2Haul pilot project – demonstrates how traditional logistics models are evolving. While electric trucks have been at the forefront of fleet decarbonisation, BMW’s investment in hydrogen fuel cell technology offers another versatile, scalable alternative for long-haul freight that warrants close analysis.

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.

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.

Tanger Med increases vehicle exports from Morocco in 2024 with majority heading to Europe

Renault’s two plants in Morocco increased output in 2024 with the great majority exported to Europe through Tanger Med port.

UECC’s sustainable strategy is turning regulation on maritime emissions into a commercial advantage

UECC has outlined its strategy for compliance with European regulations on maritime decarbonisation and how it is supplying OEM customers with alternative fuels

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.

Daimler Truck wins VDA logistics award for use of electric trucks across inbound logistics

Daimler Truck took top prize for scaling the use of electrified trucks in inbound logistics for German plants through its ‘Electrify Inbound Logistics’ project.

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.

Could Europe’s €200 billion AI initiative accelerate automotive tech and supply chains?

[Updated February 17] The European Union’s (EU’s) €200 billion ($214 billion) InvestAI Initiative gains momentum across sections including robotics, biotech, mobility and manufacturing. With a focus on innovation and workforce development, could this funding also accelerate the integration of AI-driven robotics and smart manufacturing solutions across Europe’s automotive supply chains?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

BYD continues international expansion with plant in Indonesia due to come online by end of 2025

As part of its international EV manufacturing drive, BYD is building a plant in Indonesia which is due to be complete by the end of 2025.

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.

Polestar widens global production locations to include Europe for electric SUV from 2027

Polestar is looking at Europe to build its next premium compact SUV and will expand sales to France this summer using agency model distribution.

Buelent Ileri moves to global sales and operations planning (S&OP), supply chain and logistics at AGCO

Buelent Ileri recently expanded his scope at the global agricultural equipment manufacturer, bringing a strong focus on digitalisation and planning to AGCO’s global supply chain operations.

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

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.

Volkswagen Group appoints Holger Bätz as its head of supply chain development for the After Sales division

Holger Bätz has moved from OTLG to become VW Group’s head of supply chain development for the After Sales division.

DIN and DKE publish guidance for firms to meet mandatory EU Battery Passport rules

The new guidance – Requirements for Data Attributes of the Battery Passport – is designed to help companies meet the mandatory requirements for the EU’s digital battery passport.

Associated British Ports to develop Stallingborough finished vehicle facility in Humber region of UK

Associated British Ports is developing a vehicle storage and distribution facility near the Humber ports of Grimsby and Immingham in the UK.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen to take over finished vehicle terminal operations at port of Gothenburg in 2026

Wallenius Wilhelmsen will take over the management of finished vehicle services at Sweden’s biggest vehicle port on a 12-year concession from next year.

Join BMW, Tesla, JLR, and more at ALSC Europe 2025 in Bonn for key automotive logistics insights

Europe’s premier automotive logistics and supply chain conference returns to Bonn this 18-20 March.

How diversity of thought turns challenges into competitive gains

As the automotive industry navigates nearshoring shifts and the rise of electric vehicles, diversity emerges as a strategic advantage. By fostering inclusivity, cross-cultural collaboration and equitable talent pipelines, leaders like Harry Kwakye Davies highlight how diverse perspectives transform challenges into opportunities.

JLR becomes fourth carmaker to join UECC’s Sail for Change sustainable fuel switch programme

[Updated January 9] JLR is helping advance its own emissions reduction goals by taking part in the Sail for Change fuel switch initiative for the maritime delivery of finished vehicles, which offers the option to switch to biofuel for short-sea shipments.

Register now: Automotive logistics & supply chain – review of 2025 and opportunities in 2026

Join Automotive Logistics’ exclusive livestream, Automotive logistics & supply chain – Review of 2025 and opportunities in 2026, to hear from thought leaders and experts and learn not just the lessons of the year, but how to be best placed to take advantage of the opportunities in 2026 and beyond.

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

Volkswagen benefits from green logistics services provided by Duvenbeck and MAN Truck and Bus

Duvenbeck’s use of MAN eTGX trucks will contribute to VW Group’s goTOzero impact logistics programme which aims to reduce CO2 emissions on road transport

Continental to make Automotive a separate European company and sell OESL business

Continental is spinning off its Automotive business unit and selling the Original Equipment Solutions (OESL) business of ContiTech as it looks for greater flexibility in responding to automotive market trends

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.

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.

Stellantis’ Xavier Duchemin moves from VP of global supply chain to head of France

Xavier Duchemin will become Stellantis’ managing director in France, succeeding Christophe Musy, who has held the role since March last year.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks delivers first eActros 600 units to transport customers and announces upgrades to Wörth plant charging infrastructure

Mercedes-Benz Trucks will provide eActros 600 trucks to its own logistics providers from Q2 next year and is supporting emission-free inbound logistics with upgraded charging infrastructure at the Wörth plant in Germany

UECC adds multi-fuel LNG vessel to car carrier fleet as sector invests to decarbonise global maritime vehicle logistics

UECC continues to invest in decarbonising its car carrier operations with addition of multi-fuel LNG vessel

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