Tag: nearshoring

Automotive logistics and supply chains in 2025: Tariff turmoil, investment uncertainty and further cost pressures

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.

Global supply chain adapts to booming sales of Chinese vehicles

China's auto exports gain momentum despite substantial headwinds, demonstrating outstanding flexibility in adapting to issues such as tariffs and demand fluctuations in target markets.

US announces new tariff rates, delays implementation again

US president Donald Trump has again delayed tariffs on individual countries, extending the implementation deadline from today (1 August) until next week.

Megan Kelly

BYD delays production in Hungary

Chinese OEM BYD has delayed production plans for its Hungary plant until 2026, according to reports.

Megan Kelly

Mitsubishi keeps an eye on capacity in Vietnam

Mitsubishi is navigating rising demand in Vietnam by balancing CKD assembly and regional imports, while investing in parts distribution and evaluating transport capacity amid high logistics costs.

US reaches trade deal with Japan, puts 93% tariff on Chinese graphite

The US has struck a trade deal with Japan, reducing the threatened tariff rate of 25% on goods imported to the US to 15%, providing Japan invests $550 billion in the US.

Megan Kelly

Panjit International secures chip line in Philippines to meet auto demand

Amid shifting trade dynamics and escalating EV semiconductor demand, the new partnership enhances Panjit's global supply strategy with added capacity and regional diversification.

ARS Altmann expands vehicle logistics capacity with Ravenna and Civitavecchia port terminals

ARS Altmann is enhancing multimodal vehicle logistics across Europe with port and terminal expansion in Italy, and vertical integration with its rail network.

Automotive Logistics

Malaysia removes anti-dumping duties on Vietnamese steel

Malaysia removes anti-dumping tariffs on Vietnamese steel in a move that could strengthen automotive supply chains within the ASEAN bloc.

Megan Kelly

New tariff rates set for EU, Canada and Mexico

In the latest tariff news, US president Donald Trump has set new rates for the likes of the EU, Canada and Mexico, having sent letters detailing the new levies of between 20-50% to more than 20 trade partners over the last few days.

Megan Kelly

How trade shifts are reshaping FVL strategies

Trade changes and tariffs are reshaping vehicle logistics routes and leading to delays, port congestion and compliance complexity. As OEMs strategically redesign their networks to gain opportunities from the chaos, communication with the FVL sector is key.

Megan Kelly

Trump tariff deadline: When rates will be set and implemented

US negotiations continue as Trump warns of additional tariffs for BRICS-aligned countries.

Megan Kelly

First NEV-focused reduction drive produced by ZF for Chinese market

The electric reducer has been wholly designed and manufactured locally, and is tailored for the domestic market.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

US-Vietnam trade deal: Impact on automotive sector

A new 20% tariff agreement reshapes US-Vietnam automotive trade, with implications for China and ASEAN strategies.

Megan Kelly

US threatens tariffs on Japan, OEMs face billions in losses

US tariffs could cost Japanese carmakers billions, with a looming deadline for negotiations.

Megan Kelly

US Senate passes ‘Big Beautiful Bill’, ends EV tax credits

The US Senate has passed ‘The One Big Beautiful Bill’ act, a budget bill that has several implications for the automotive industry, including the ending of EV tax credits in September.

Megan Kelly

Malaysian OEM Proton partners with several Chinese tier-1 suppliers to strengthen domestic supply chain

The partnerships will see the Chinese manufacturers produce components for upcoming Proton vehicles across Malaysian manufacturing sites.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

European FVL market faces AI regulation, tariffs and Chinese competition

Flat markets, geopolitical risk and digital transformation dominate the agenda at ECG’s 2025 Congress, as finished vehicle logistics leaders look to adapt, collaborate and globalise.

Megan Kelly

Welcome to the new Automotive Logistics experience

We’ve redesigned the Automotive Logistics website to deliver sharper insight, faster access and a smoother, more intuitive experience at a time when you need it most.

Emily Uwemedimo

Latest tariff and trade updates affecting automotive industry

Explore how Trump's evolving tariffs reshape global automotive supply chains and industry dynamics.

Megan Kelly

UK-US trade deal on vehicles partially implemented

Tariffs on UK vehicle imports to the US reduced, but steel and aluminium levies remain a challenge.

Megan Kelly

GM commits $4bn to US, moves assembly from Mexico and Canada

GM will invest $4bn to expand vehicle production in Michigan, Kansas and Tennessee, shifting models from Mexico and Canada in a move that highlights localisation, EV growth and trade policy anticipation.

Can supply chains adapt faster than the automotive market changes?

As automotive supply chains navigate rising trade barriers, accelerating electrification and fragmented digital tools, industry leaders explored how logistics must lead through disruption.

Nissan awards logistics partners and calls to go ‘full speed ahead’

Supply chain and aftersales logistics leads in the Americas, Chris Styles and Darrin Lucas, stressed the role that logistics will play in Nissan’s growth plan.

Catch up on the highlights of ALSC Digital Strategies North America 2025

Last week, Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America returned to Nashville. Watch the highlight reel to see what delegates experienced at event.

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

European FVL is facing a triple shock: weakening export demand, under-utilised plants and a resurgence of protectionism on both sides of the Atlantic.

Car and truck makers adapt transport planning to increase the use of EVs

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.

Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America 2025 – Day two

Watch the wrap up of day two from the second annual Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America 2025

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

The regional senior director of SCM on how Nissan has implemented 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.

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.

Rare earth magnet shortage disrupts global auto production

China produces almost 70% of rare earth magnets but exports are now tied up in lengthy license applications, prompting supply and shortage concerns.

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

Upgrades to port infrastructure through 2024 have given some of the top volume processors room for manoeuvre amid uncertainty.

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.

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

Trump tariffs back on following appeal of US Trade Court's block

Trump has appealed a decision made by US court that blocked his ‘reciprocal’ tariffs, ruling he lacked authority under emergency powers to impose reciprocal trade measures.

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.

Nissan looking at ways to secure UK vehicle production including through Chinese joint venture

Nissan is looking at ways to secure production at its Sunderland plant amidst global cuts and that could include joint production with a Chinese EV partner.

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

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.

Alliance members Mitsubishi and Nissan consider joint US production plant to mitigate tariff hikes

Mitsubishi has revealed that is has been talking to fellow Alliance member Nissan about joint production opportunities in the US. Details have not been released yet, but it may involve using already existing Nissan plants.

Despite minor setbacks, the Chinese automotive industry may come out as a winner in the tariff war

As the US and China remain in a standoff in their tariff war with neither side willing to budge, observers say the world is witnessing the end of the era of globalisation in the automotive industry as we know it.

Supplier index: Toyota on top, Stellantis sinks lower

Toyota, Honda and GM improve supplier relations as Ford and Stellantis fall further in North America’s OEM rankings.

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.

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.

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.

Nissan Motor is scrapping plans to build a $1.1bn EV battery plant in Kyushu, Japan

Despite only announcing the new plant in January, Nissan has cancelled its proposed lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery plant, planned to be built in Kitakyushi, Japan. The plant would have created around 500 internal jobs and helped the company reinforce its domestic EV production.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Thailand’s automotive supply chain challenges and opportunities for competitiveness in ASEAN

Weak demand, US tariffs and slowing EV growth are challenging Thailand’s auto sector, but new incentives may revive competitiveness.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 | 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.

Reimagining Finished Vehicle Logistics: Highlights from FVL North America 2025

Watch all the highlights from #FVLNA 2025.

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.

“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.

VW Group one of a number of carmakers revising exports of vehicles from Mexico to US

Carmakers, including VW Group, are suspending the export of vehicles from Mexico into the US and revising production plans in the face of US tariffs brought in last week by the Trump administration. The German carmaker is also now holding all vehicles delivered after April 3 at US ports of entry.

JLR restarts vehicle shipments to the US following a pause due Trump tariffs on car and parts imports

JLR has said it will pause all shipments to the US, following the raft of tariffs announced by US president Donald Trump last week.

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.

Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2025 Golf day

Stellantis is pausing production at plants in Canada and Mexico and laying off 900 staff in the US

As US tariffs on vehicle imports kicked in this week, Stellantis announced it is temporarily shutting plants in Canada and Mexico, with knock-on, short-term layoffs for staff at stamping, transmission and casting plants in the US.

Impact of the new US trade policy includes the potential cumulative effects of ‘tariff stacking’

[Updated April 23] This week’s announcement by the US Trump administration of tariffs on global imports is more wide-ranging that Trump 1.0 and ’tariff stacking’ could mean vehicle makers and parts suppliers face much higher costs.

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.

FVL NA 2025 - “Get ready to re-imagine logistics: Creating a faster, agile, more competitive vehicle supply chain”

Welcome to the recap blog from Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2025, which took place at Waterfront Beach Resort, Huntington Beach, California, on 8-10 April. The conference brought over 400 delegates and leaders, and featured discussion on real-world issues and offering innovative and implementable solutions in the inbound logistics, transportation, supply chain strategy and much more. While the conference has ended, our coverage has not - keep following this recap blog for more insights and interviews from the event, and register now for next year here!

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.

Toyota plans to produce next-generation lithium batteries in Japan on hold

Toyota is revising its plans for battery production in Kyushu, Japan in the light of electric vehicle demand and rising material prices.

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.

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.

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.

Orbis moves into repurposed plant in Greenville to make reusuable totes and pallets for automotive customers

Packaging provider Orbis has opened a 39,000 sq.m production facility in Greenville, Texas to make reusable totes and pallets, incluidng its full range of products for automotive industry

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.

Stellantis CFO Doug Ostermann tells Wolfe Research summit about supply chain push to deal with tariff uncertainty

This week Stellantis’ chief financial officer, Doug Ostermann, outlined the efforts the carmaker was making to mitigate the impact of trade uncertainty in North America and its commitment to manufacturing in the US.

Audi and BMW call for tariff-free trade in North America as Trump tariffs take their toll

German carmakers are holding their breath for the next Trump tariff announcement to see if USMCA local content rules will necessitate higher prices and production adjustments in North America.

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 reinvention strategy powers its European expansion

With a commitment to 24-hour parts delivery and optimised ro-ro shipping, VinFast is enhancing its logistics profile across Europe and ASEAN to meet evolving customer needs.

Trump’s proposed Ukraine peace deal signals major shifts in automotive logistics, reshaping markets in Russia, Europe, and China

A 30-day Russia-Ukraine ceasefire proposed by the Trump administration on March 11, designed to be a prelude to a lasting peace deal, can pave the way to tremendous changes for the automotive industry in Russia, Europe and China.

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 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.

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…

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.

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.

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.

The US tariff timeline of trade tensions and tariff changes

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

Megan Kelly

Emily Uwemedimo

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.

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.

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.

Port Freeport strengthens automotive logistics with record growth, new infrastructure, and multimodal connections

PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Logistics in partnership with Port FreeportWith soaring vehicle and container volumes, Port Freeport is investing in capacity, multimodal links and nearshoring-driven growth.

Mazda invests $148m in Thailand to expand EV exports across ASEAN and Japan

Mazda plans to strengthen Auto Alliance Thailand, its joint venture manufacturing base with Ford in Thailand, with an investment of 5 billion Thai baht ($148m), aiming to develop its facilities and become a regional manufacturing hub.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.