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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.

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

Nissan awards top North America logistics partners and calls to go ‘full speed ahead’ in supply chain recovery

Winners took home honours across inbound, vehicle and aftersales logistics, whilst Chris Styles and Darrin Lucas, leaders of regional supply chain management and aftersales logistics, respectively, emphasised the role that logistics partners would play in Nissan’s recovery and product offensive.

Christopher Ludwig

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.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

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.

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.

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.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

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

Rivian exec confirms its software will form the basis of Volkswagen EVs, following joint venture

The EV company’s chief software officer, Wassym Bensaid, has revealed that Volkswagen will leverage Rivian’s software across all its upcoming vehicles. The announcement follows a $5 billion joint venture between the two companies.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

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.

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

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.

Charlie Blackie-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

James Todd Kloeb, former head of material planning and logistics for the Americas at Ford, joins Lucid Motors as global vice president of MP&L

James Todd Kloeb announced the news on social media, with it following a three-decade long stint at Ford. His role is expected to encompass global supply chain planning.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

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

How digital data strategies are helping automotive supply chains manage trade volatility, compliance risks and tariff disruptions

Digital strategies are becoming increasingly important in automotive supply chains to predict and protect against risks and improve resilience, and data lies at the foundation of these digital tools. In our latest livestream, supply chain experts weighed in on the importance of creating and maintaining data you can trust, educating teams on how to use, store and share data, and how to avoid data silos within organisations and the wider supply chain.

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

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.

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

Rivian commits to building a $120m supplier park attached to its EV manufacturing plant in Illinois

The construction of a supplier park is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 in addition to the already underway expansion of the manufacturing plant in Normal, Illinois. Rivian claims that the supplier park will be a “key enabler” to its operations as it begins manufacture of the R2 van.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

DHL and Cox Automotive launch UK’s largest EV battery services centre for manufacturers to tackle complexities in battery handling

Housed within DHL’s 146,000-square-foot EV Centre of Excellence, a joint venture battery hub supports manufacturers and fleet operators across the UK. It combines specialist safety infrastructure, remanufacturing workshops and on-site energy storage to meet tightening regulations and rising demand for transparency around battery health and end of life processing.

Emily Uwemedimo

Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain ASEAN to debut in Singapore with senior OEMs, suppliers and tech leaders shaping regional strategy

ALSC ASEAN debuts in Singapore on 28 Oct, uniting OEMs and suppliers to shape the region’s supply chain and EV strategy.

Automotive Logistics

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

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

US automotive part tariffs come into effect as Ford forecasts $1.5bn hit and suspends financial guidance

Automotive part import tariffs are now in force in US, with Ford warning of $1.5bn loss as industry faces widespread production disruptions.

Megan Kelly

US provides auto industry tariff relief offsets and new limits on stacking duties

US president Donald Trump has offered relief to carmakers in the form of tariff rebates while clearing up some uncertainty on tariff stacking.

Megan Kelly

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.

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

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 “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

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.

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

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 | 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.

Hyundai Motor commits $21 billion to US vehicle manufacturing, supply chain and logistics

Hyundai has announced an investment in US vehicle production, supply chain and logistics of $21 billion and in the same week has officially opened its metaplant in Georgia at which it now plans to make 500,000 electric vehicles a year.

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

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 | 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.

Kuehne + Nagel consolidates cross-dock services with doubled capacity on US-Mexico border

Kuehne + Nagel is helping customers navigate the complex demands of nearshoring at a time of tariff threats in North America from a new consolidate cross-dock in Laredo, Texas.

Marcus Williams

Plus

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

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

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

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

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

Smarter logistics, lower emissions: How digital tools are reshaping automotive supply chains

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Logistics in partnership with DP World.The global inbound supply of automotive parts needs to be quicker, cleaner and ready to deal with dwell and disruption, something DP World is supporting with the latest digital technology, according to Kai Olschner, global vice-president of Supply Chain Engineering.

Automotive Logistics

BlackRock to acquire Panama Canal ports as Trump pressures Panama over Chinese business ties

Two ports at Panama Canal, owned by Hong Kong firm CK Hutchinson Holdings, are set to be sold to American asset management firm BlackRock, following Trump’s threats to “retake” the Panama Canal amid his claims it was being run by China.

Megan Kelly

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.

Steffen Huck, CPS Group

Nandor Kovacs, CPS Group

Megan Kelly

Eva Middendorf

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

PSA is using the latest automation technology to increase container throughput at the port of Tuas

Container terminal operator PSA has moved 10m containers through the port of Tuas in Singapore using the latest automation technology for dockside and ajacent supply hub operations.

Marcus Williams

How Trump’s presidency is reshaping automotive logistics: A timeline of tariffs, trade disputes, and EV policy shifts

The US election outcome triggers uncertainty for automotive logistics, with tariffs, trade wars, and supply chain risks ahead.

Megan Kelly

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.

Christopher Ludwig

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.

Christopher Ludwig

Anushka Dixit

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

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

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.

Emily Uwemedimo

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

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

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.

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

Donald Trump is imposing 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium from Canada and Mexico, and could include auto parts

Donald Trump is holding the threat of 25% tariffs over auto parts and metals imports from Canada and Mexico, which could disrupt the North American automotive supply chain. The US president added that he will add new wider tariffs on finished vehicles, to be announced on April 2.

Marcus Williams

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

Toyota is making its own batteries at a plant in North Carolina and will be begin local supply in April

Toyota will be begin shipping lithium batteries from its own plant in North Carolina from April this year, beginning with deliveries by truck to its Kentucky assembly plant in Georgetown

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

Ford’s president, CEO and director James Farley warns of serious financial impact on auto sector if Trump tariffs persist

[Updated February 11] Ford’s president, CEO and director James Farley used its Q4 earnings call last week to warn that any extended use of tariffs on automotive products from Canada and Mexico would have a huge adverse impact on the entire value system of the US automotive industry. He drove home the warnings at this week’s Wolfe Research Auto, Auto Tech and Semiconductor Conference in New York.

Marcus Williams

China retaliates against Trump’s auto tariffs with 10% duty on US vehicles and WTO complaint

China has responded to US president Donald Trump’s tariffs of 10% on all goods imported from China, in addition to the existing 100% tariffs on Chinese EV and battery imports, with tariffs of its own.

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

Barbara Bergmeier steps down as executive director of industrial operations at JLR, replaced by Nigel Blenkinsop

[Updated February 5] Barbara Bergmeier has stepped down as executive director of industrial operations at JLR to be replaced by Nigel Blenkinsop, who will continue her leadership focused on maintaining a robust and sustainable end-to-end supply chain.

Marcus Williams

Trump’s tariff pose on imports from Canada and Mexico tests resiliency of supply chain planners

Even with a month’s grace period, the threat of US tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico made by Donald Trump over the weekend is creating supply chain uncertainty across the North American automotive industry. Carmakers are calling for attention to USMCA rules and warning of the impact on jobs, investment and consumers.

Marcus Williams

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

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

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.

Automotive Logistics

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

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.

Marcus Williams

Trade disputes accelerate nearshoring trend with implications 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 at the accelerating trend of nearshoring in the first 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

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.

Automotive Logistics

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

Mazda localising battery supply with Panasonic Energy for electric vehicle production in Japan

Panasonic Energy will be supplying Mazda with battery cells for assembly of modules produced locally for a new electric vehicle made in Iwakuni City.

Marcus Williams

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.

Automotive Logistics

Volkswagen is investing in digital architecture for competitive and localised battery EV production in China

Volkswagen is focusing on a strong localisation drive in China and the development of a digital architecture for faster EV development and production as the market competes aggressively on price.

Marcus Williams

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

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

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

Audi and FAW start production of Q6L e-tron in Changchun supported by sustainable automated logistics and production

Audi FAW NEV will manufacture mid-sized and full-sized PPE vehicles at the new factory, which has annual capacity for 150,000 vehicles and the batteries to power them

Marcus Williams

German Association of the Automotive Industry has published a new auditing standard for logistics – VDA 6.8 Process Audit Supply Chain

The VDA’s Logistics Committee chairman, Simon Motter, who is head of Volkswagen Group Logistics, said the new VDA auditing standard addresses the importance of smooth supply chain processes for the entire automotive industry

Marcus Williams

Stellantis appoints Tammy Ruelland and Maya Tumilowski to lead vehicle logistics and fleet operations in North America

Tammy Ruelland has replaced Jon Schwartz as director of finished vehicle logistics in North America at Stellantis, with Maya Tumilowski leading the carmaker’s in-house trucking and haulaway companies, FCAT and ATS. The regional supply chain division now reports to Scott Thiele, who also leads commercial performance and emissions.

Christopher Ludwig

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

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

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

Stellantis invests in €4.1 billion Spanish gigafactory with CATL to boost localised battery supply chain and reduce cost

Stellantis has partnered with Chinese battery manufacturer CATL to invest up to €4.1 billion ($4.3 bn) for a large-scale lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery plant in Spain.

Megan Kelly

Nissan has a partnership with scenario planning provider Anaplan to digitalise business optimisation in Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania

Nissan’s has set up a strategic partnership with Anaplan to digitalise the vehicle flow process from production to sales

Marcus Williams

Using data to assess automotive supply chain risk relies on cross-functional coordination and convincing the board

Risk and complexity go hand in hand in the automotive supply chain but knowing how to manage the consequences of disruption with accurate data can mean the difference between success and failure, according to speakers from JLR, Daimler Truck and Celonis at this year’s ALSC Digital Strategies Europe conference.

Marcus Williams

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

Mercedes-Benz’s International Consolidation Center in Germany is being built on sustainable foundations

Mercedes-Benz’s International Consolidation Center will open in the second quarter of 2025 with sustainability at the core of its construction and logistics planning.

Marcus Williams

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

BMW will use hydrogen-powered tugger trains and forklift trucks for in-plant logistics at Regensburg from 2026

As part of its sustainability efforts, BMW will transition its in-plant logistics at Regensburg to hydrogen fuel cell technology, powering its tugger trains and forklift trucks. This move, under the iFactory initiative, aims to streamline operations and support the company’s carbon-neutral goals by reducing reliance on electric battery systems.

Marcus Williams

Daimler Truck is making the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 at Wörth assembly plant in Germany with inbound parts from Gaggenau, Kassel and Mannheim

Daimler Truck is using flexible assembly, inbound electric trucks and clean manufacturing to make the long-haul Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 at its Wörth plant in Germany.

Marcus Williams

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

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

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

Toyota México’s senior director of external affairs and trade compliance, Lizette Gracida says, “Mexico’s nearshoring is a historic opportunity with strategic challenges”

Toyota’s $1.4 billion investment is helping pave the way for Mexico to become a leader in nearshoring and sustainable logistics. In a Red Sofa interview at the 2024 Automotive Logistics Supply Chain Mexico conference, Lizette Gracida, senior director of external affairs and trade compliance at Toyota’s Mexico division, discusses how strategic policies can support this transformation.

JLR, Mercedes-Benz and Renault join logistics providers to discuss sustainable collaboration at ECG conference

Carmakers in Europe are not afraid of collaborating with logistics partners to decarbonise inbound and outbound logistics. At this year’s ECG conference in Hamburg, Germany, speakers from JLR, Mercedes-Benz and Renault outlined what they were doing to secure more sustainable deliveries.

Marcus Williams

Emily Uwemedimo

Failure to find viable rescue plan means Audi’s troubled plant in Brussels will close in February 2025

Audi’s troubled Brussels plant which makes the Q8 e-tron will close in February next year after the carmaker’s failure to find a substitute investor.

Marcus Williams

The results are in! Download the Automotive Logistics Systems & Software Survey 2024 Report now

Automotive Logistics Systems and Software Survey 2024 PDF | 0.96 Mb The results of Automotive Logistics’ survey of its global experts from OEMs, tier suppliers and logistics providers show key challenges in interoperability, visibility and the push toward industry-wide digital solutions. For a preview of the key takeaways, read our article on some of the trends here . For full access to all the findings, including trends broken down by company type, region, types of software and more, downloa…

Daniel Harrison

ALSC Mexico 2024: Drinks reception and insights shared on the future of nearshoring, trade and growth

Christopher Ludwig takes us behind the scenes at ALSC Mexico 2024…