Toyota uses VDL Groep hydrogen fuel cell trucks for Europe parts distribution The OEM is using the trucks for distribution between its European parts centre in Belgium and locations in France, Germany and the Netherlands. Marcus Williams
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. Charlie Blackie-Kelly
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.
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 The tier one supplier confirms it has applied for bankruptcy to continue operations while it looks to secure additional funding or buyout. 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
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. Charlie Blackie-Kelly
Nissan’s supply chain playbook for real-time resilience 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. Emily Uwemedimo Christopher Ludwig
Volvo Cars announces 3,000 redundancies as part of new lean plan As part of its recently launched cost and cash action plan, the OEM announces it will reduce its global office-based workforce by 15%, mostly based in Sweden. Charlie Blackie-Kelly
VW Group Logistics launches Venice port terminal to optimise exports, reduce emissions and improve resilience across vehicle logistics Volkswagen Group Logistics will expand its port network for finished vehicles of the Volkswagen Group with a terminal at Venice port in Italy, which will reduce lead times for many plants, increase rail transport, and shorten shipping times with Asia. Christopher Ludwig Megan Kelly
JLR 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
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
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. Charlie Blackie-Kelly
In the latest management change from Stellantis, current COO Antonio Filosa has been promoted to CEO The resignation of previous CEO Carlos Tavares kickstarted a wave of changes in Stellantis’ boardroom. The appointment of a new CEO could point to a return to stability, as Antonio Filosa brings decades of experience from across several Stellantis brands to the role. Charlie Blackie-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
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
Audi announces production of its second-generation Q7 SUV has begun at the DRB-Hicom manufacturing plant in Malaysia In a move to strengthen regional supply chain resilience, Audi has begun local production of its Q7 SUV at Malaysia’s DRB-Hicom facility, the brand’s first fully localised assembly project in South-East Asia. The current output for the Pekan plant is at three vehicles per day, but with the expectation of this rising to 5,000 units per annum. Charlie Blackie-Kelly
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. Marcus Williams
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! Anushka Dixit Emily Uwemedimo Megan Kelly
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
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
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
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
JLR leads logistics innovation with closed-loop seat foam recycling, advancing circular economy principles through the automotive supply chain JLR is transforming automotive logistics with closed-loop seat foam recycling. Through partnerships and innovation, it is advancing a circular economy, cutting emissions, and securing sustainable supply chains for luxury vehicles. Ilkhan Ozsevim
GKN Automotive’s sustainability achievements highlight the role of suppliers and logistics ahead of key discussions at ALSC Europe 2025 in Bonn As GKN Automotive continues to advance its sustainability goals, its efforts resonate with themes of resilience and collaboration. These achievements will inform discussions at the Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Europe event in Bonn, where GKN will share insights into sustainable procurement and logistics. Ilkhan Ozsevim Megan Kelly
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
ALSC Mexico 2024 recap blog: Discussing nearshoring, digital transformation and cross-border strategies The tenth Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico conference has wrapped up, after industry leaders, logistics experts and automotive pioneers gathered to discuss the latest trends, challenges and innovations transforming Mexico’s automotive supply chain. That transformation comes at an uncertain time for the North American supply chain, with shifting global dynamics and a pivotal US election. Marcus Williams Anushka Dixit Megan Kelly Emily Uwemedimo
GM’s “act as one team” philosophy is redefining supplier partnerships and strengthening internal culture Heather Latham is uniting General Motors’ (GM) production and customer care operations to create a more integrated, customer-focused supply chain, reshaping its approach to both manufacturing and aftersales service. Emily Uwemedimo
Mercedes Figueroa on how Stellantis is using AI to enable flexible logistics Our Chief Content Offiser spoke with Mercedes Figueroa, Head of Transportation Operations for Stellantis North America about how the company is building flexibility, resilience, and efficiency into its logistics operations through cutting-edge technology and strategic collaboration with partners.
Red Sofa Interview | Criss Edwards, Unipart on transforming the auto industry Criss Edwards, President and Managing Director North America at Unipart spoke with our Chief Content Officer Christopher Ludwig at the ALSC Global 2024 on how Unipart and the broader 3PL industry will continue to evolve and support OEMs in this new era.
Global EV sales hit record highs in 2024 despite supply chain and automotive logistics industry fears, continuing their upward momentum How will slowing growth in EVs impact auto industry investment strategies? As the industry navigates challenges from rising costs and charging infrastructure gaps, to consumer range anxiety and rising competition, Daniel Harrison explodes some EV myths. Daniel Harrison
BMW’s Hendrik Lang on achieving sustainable automotive supply chains Hendrik Lang, BMW’s senior vice-president of supply chain strategy and sustainability, attended London Climate Action Week in June. He talks BMW’s successes with carbon contracts, collaboration and convincing suppliers of sustainability’s benefits. Report by Ilkhan Ozsevim Ilkhan Ozsevim
Turkey announces 40% tariff on Chinese vehicle imports as EU imposes multi-band tariffs against Chinese OEMs Turkey’s new tariff on Chinese vehicle imports highlights global concerns over China’s subsidised EV exports. Meanwhile, the EU has announced its own tariffs on Chinese EVs, ranging from 17.4% to 38.1%. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Trade wars: The rise of protectionism and its impact on finished vehicle logistics Economic competition between China, the EU and the US intensifies with protectionist policies expanding to counter China’s EV ‘dumping’ strategies into broadly western regions that upset ‘fair’ competition Ilkhan Ozsevim
ECG European market outlook shows gradual recovery amid constraints and rise of protectionism against China At the ECG Spring Congress 2024, Justin Cox, director of global production at LMC Automotive, offered keen insights into the European automotive market’s current state. With inflationary woes and China’s sway looming large, Cox’s address highlighted the imperative for agile adaptation amidst market flux. Ilkhan Ozsevim
The power of digitalised, automated and sustainable automotive supply chains and logistics Here are the key Automotive Logistics insights from Torsten Müller (Audi), Adam Jones (Unipart Group), and Gabriel Werner (Blue Yonder) on digitalisation, automation, AI, the role of data, and sustainability from ALSC Europe 2024. Ilkhan Ozsevim
ALSC Europe 2024 Day two wrap-up Join us as ALSC Europe 2024 comes to a close to take a look at all the inspiring content of the day. From discussions on supply chain management and transportation solutions to advancements in technology and sustainability initiatives, this event has covered it all.
ALSC Europe 2024 Day one wrap-up Join us as we close the first day of ALSC Europe 2024 and take a look at all the inspiring content of the day - as well as what’s in store for us tomorrow. From discussions on supply chain management and transportation solutions to advancements in technology and sustainability initiatives, this event will cover it all.
ALSC Europe 2024 Cocktail Reception wrap-up Join us inside the ALSC Europe 2024 Cocktail Reception as we get revved up for the hottest topics in automotive logistics. From discussions on supply chain management and transportation solutions to advancements in technology and sustainability initiatives, this event will cover it all.
Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Europe: Recap blog Follow our recap blog below for the key highlights and knowledge shared at ALSC Europe 2024. Even though the event is over, the insight doesn’t stop, and we will continue to update this blog with the most valuable insights, data and quotes from automotive experts discussing how to deliver a competitive edge, through reducing complexity, increasing flexibility and maximising capacity. Jump to key highlights:Dr Michael Nikolaides, BMW on market volatilityMartina Graser, Ford Europe on securing ocean-based capacityIza Kalinska, JLR, Sabine Isenbort, Ford Europe and Sonia Santos, Bosch on the Red SofaLevent Yuksel, JLR Red Sofa Interview and article on ‘win win’ opportunities for collaborationJean-Marc Carlicchi, Renault Group on the ‘new never-normal’Jean Christophe Deville, Toyota Motor Europe Red Sofa Interview and article on advantageous partnershipsOliver Bronder, VW Group Logistics keynote panel Automotive Logistics
The measurement problem: how accurate carbon technology can turn logistical liabilities into assets For automotive logistics, there can be no accountability without accurate carbon accounting. We spoke to Brian Semkiw, CEO of Spectaire, about how micro-mass-spectrometry can solve an issue too-often evaded by the auto industry: accurate emissions measurements Ilkhan Ozsevim
Gestamp redefines supply chain management for industry 4.0 Under the guidance of Diego Mallada, chief information officer for digitalisation, Gestamp is emerging as a leader in integrating digital networks and AI across its supply chain. Gestamp, an expert in metal automotive components and body-in-white, is revolutionising automotive supply chain management through advanced industry 4.0 strategies, emphasising federated networks and superior data quality. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Watch: How Gestamp is connecting the automotive supply chain through global federated networks and data standardisation Gestamp is undergoing a significant digital transformation. As Diego Mallada explains to Christoper Ludwig, it is using a federated network and commitment to data excellence to redefine connectivity while driving collaboration and efficiency across global supply chains. Watch this video to learn more vision, strategy and technology behind Gestamp’s leap into the future of automotive logistics.
Brose streamlines automotive supplier management with SAP, Capgemini collaboration through CSI4Auto Brose has joined forces with SAP and Capgemini to boost supplier integration using digitised identity management through a transparent, digital supply chain. Ilkhan Ozsevim
VW Group accelerates digital supply chain transformation as part of Cofinity-X partnership VW Group adopts cutting-edge Catena-X services, enhancing transparency, sustainability and efficiency in automotive supply chains Ilkhan Ozsevim
Volta Trucks files for bankruptcy after collapse of battery supplier Volta Trucks’ demise showcases how supply chains can disrupt even promising EV ventures due to supply chain challenges Ilkhan Ozsevim
Sustainable priorities at Europe’s vehicle ports Vehicle-handling ports on the European continent spent last year dealing with the fallout from the Covid pandemic and the impact of the semiconductor shortage, but that did not stop a number of them pursuing ambitious sustainability initiatives related to infrastructure. Marcus Williams reports Marcus Williams
LG Chem and Henkel work to control lithium battery fires Chemical companies are doing their bit to help minimise the risk of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, with recent announcements for Korea’s LG Chem and Henkel in Germany. Marcus Williams
BMW Brilliance extends Dadong plant and integrates logistics BMW’s joint venture in China – BMW Brilliance Automotive (BBA) – has completed the extension of its Dadong plant in Shenyang, taking its footprint to 91 hectares. The facility now includes press, body and paint shops alongside a single-roof, integrated logistics and assembly building with two independent production lines. Marcus Williams
GM signs agreement to source cobalt from Glencore GM has signed a multi-year sourcing agreement with Glencore for the supply of cobalt from its mining operation in Australia. Jason Dunn
Mazda begins direct imports to UK from Japan Mazda has made its first direct delivery of Japanese exports to the UK through the port of Bristol. Marcus Williams
Toyota makes major shift to rail for vehicle moves in Europe Toyota has started exporting vehicles made at its Burnaston plant in the UK to Europe on rail via the Channel Tunnel. It is also importing vehicles produced at the Valenciennes plant in France to the UK along the same route. Marcus Williams
BMW opens US VDC at Sparrows Point with Tradepoint Atlantic BMW has opened a vehicle distribution centre (VDC) in the US port of Baltimore with logistics property developer Tradepoint Atlantic. Marcus Williams
Zeebrugge port increases vehicle handling and sustainability The port of Zeebrugge in Belgium has seen a 3% increase in the volume of finished vehicles processed through 2021 compared to the previous year, bringing the number of vehicles handled to 2.26m. Marcus Williams
Trucker protest hits automotive shipments on US-Canada border Last week’s driver protests on the US-Canadian border caused disruption to the movement of automotive parts and finished vehicles. As a consequence, some assembly plants in Canada and the US had to temporarily shutdown lines. Marcus Williams
Toyota cuts March production plans because of chip shortage Toyota has been forced to cut global vehicle production by 100,000 in March because of the spread of Covid and its impact on the production of semiconductors. Marcus Williams
Swift using ICL digital yard management tool for Stellantis moves US finished vehicle carrier Swift Transportation has signed up to use a digital yard management system from ICL, provider of finished vehicle logistics software, to better support its OEM customer Stellantis. Marcus Williams
Canadian National Railway appoints Tracy Robinson as new CEO Canadian National Railway (CN) has named Tracy Robinson as its new chief executive officer and a member of its board of directors from February 28th. Jason Dunn
VW starts ID.5 production at Zwickau with smart logistics Volkswagen has started series production of the ID.5 electric vehicle (EV) at its Zwickau plant in Germany, the sixth EV to be made at the plant after the ID.3, ID.4, Audi Q4 e-tron, Q4 Sportback e-tron and Cupra Born. The ID.5 also comes in a GTX version. Marcus Williams
DHL invests $15m in warehouse automation from Boston Dynamics DHL Supply Chain has invested $15m in warehouse automation technology supplied by engineering and robotics provider Boston Dynamics. Marcus Williams
Local battery production promises to re-industrialise Europe Localising lithium-ion battery production in Europe does not just promise a more secure battery supply chain, it could play a major role in the industrial salvation of a market that has lost its competitive footing against stronger Asian rivals in the race to a more sustainable future of mobility. Marcus Williams
BMW signs second contract with ICL for outbound in Canada BMW in Canada has contracted ICL Systems to manage the track and trace, invoice auditing and freight claims management for the delivery of its finished vehicles to the sales network. Marcus Williams
Mercedes joins Stellantis and Total to expand European battery cell capacity Mercedes-Benz has joined Stellantis and Total in taking shares in Automotive Cells Company, with plans to further expand battery cell production and regional supply chains in Europe. The German carmaker is planning eight global gigafactories, including four in Europe. Jason Dunn
Watch: Moving better through the border, together The US-Mexico border has never faced so many challenges, but there are door-to-door solutions that can reduce lead times and cost, reveals Agustin Sustaita, MD of Transportes Logisticos Especializados (TLE), a strategic partner of D-Troy Logistics, in an exclusive interview ahead of the Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Global conference in Detroit.
In the waiting room: how the chip crunch is now hitting dealer sales As semiconductor shortages hit production, most OEMs were able to satisfy demand by running down inventory, but worsening supply shortages are starting to choke off new vehicle registrations, with impacts likely across the supply chain for years to come. Namrita Chow
XPO spinoff GXO could see big gains in warehouse automation GXO Logistics has debuted on the New York Stock Exchange, with around 5% of the contract logistics market in North America and Europe. It has its eyes set on warehouse automation growth, with automotive as a potential growth area. Christopher Ludwig
Watch: How Volkswagen is charging an electric revolution in its supply chain As Volkswagen Group gears up to manufacture 1.5m EVs per year by 2025, it is transforming its supply chain. Danny Auerswald, who leads the carmaker’s all-electric factory in Dresden, explains how Volkswagen is transforming plants and logistics to meet its electric and sustainability targets during Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live.
Watch: India supply chain insights and automotive market forecast The Indian automotive industry is facing a significant economic crisis as the country faces the coronavirus crisis. In a presentation at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live, Puneet Gupta from IHS Markit Automotive shares insights into the demand patterns, production outlook and government measures that will impact the Indian automotive supply chain over the next decade.
Watch: Commercial vehicle supply chains with Scania and MAN The supply chain and logistics requirements for commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses, can vary significantly. During a panel at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live, supply chain leaders from MAN and Scania explain how they are optimising networks and responding to the crisis.
Watch: Spotlight on the Indian supply chain Watch this panel discussion from Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Live on key challenges from the crisis, digitalisation developments and opportunities for the automotive supply chain in India featuring logistics experts from FCA, JCB and Smart Links Technology.
At the centre of change for Volkswagen Group Martin Hofmann, chief information office of the Volkswagen Group (pictured, right), explains how the carmaker is transforming its IT system backbone and legacy infrastructure across manufacturing, purchasing, supply chain and engineering – and how Volkswagen is now able to attract top software talent. Christopher Ludwig
Ford of Europe: A system of strength and complexity Dirk Willmann’s 25-year career with Ford has made him witness to the changing arc of the company’s supply chain in Europe and further afield, including more complicated material flows, new locations and footprint changes, as well as advances in technology. Christopher Ludwig
Audi special reports conclusion: Experts at managing change Preventing unnecessary complexity can be just as important as managing it in Audi’s supply chain Chris Ludwig Christopher Ludwig
