Tag: volkswagen

ALSC Mexico showed how Mexico can maintain its supply chain edge

ALSC Mexico 2025 highlighted the need for innovation, efficiency and flexibility if Mexico's automotive supply chain is to maintain its competitive edge.

James McLoughlin

Watch: ALSC Mexico 2025 - Day 3 Wrap up

Christopher Ludwig, chief content officer at Automotive Logistics, wraps up the final day of the Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Mexico 2025 conference from the heart of Mexico City, reflecting on resilience, digital transformation, localisation and the path ahead for competitiveness.

Automotive Logistics

Watch: VW's Dr Susanne Lehmann on the group's strategy for growth in South-East Asia

VW's Dr Susanne Lehmann discusses the group's goals in South-East Asia and how it is working with suppliers, logistics firms and governments to achieve them.

Automotive Logistics

Volkswagen joins MAN Truck & Bus to promote etruck use in transport

At this week’s MAN Truck Forum (November 5) Volkswagen Group Logistics joined the commercial vehicle maker in an ‘E-Experience’ event to promote the use of electric trucks (etrucks) to cut emissions from road transport.

China to ensure Nexperia chip trade resumes, White House says

With the ongoing dispute between chipmaker Nexperia’s Dutch leadership and its operations in China yet to be resolved, a White House fact sheet has confirmed that China is working to resume the flow of Nexperia semiconductors to the rest of the world.

James McLoughlin

Experts to discuss building resilient, digital and competitive supply chains at ALSC ASEAN

At ALSC ASEAN, automotive logistics experts will discuss how firms can build resilience and embrace digitalisation to stay competitive in south-east Asia.

James McLoughlin

VW tests automated vehicle driving to optimise port logistics

Driverless vehicles are being tested at the Port of Emden in Germany in an effort to use automation to automate and make workflows at automotive terminals more efficient.

James McLoughlin

Lean machine: Top 10 Red Sofas on lean logistics

From multimodal innovation to AI-powered control towers, industry leaders share practical strategies for driving leaner, more resilient logistics operations – and reveal why efficiency is as much about mindset as it is about technology.

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

OEMs face financial losses as tariffs bite

OEMs are beginning to see the real impact of the tariffs imposed by the US, with profits and operating income for the first half of the year taking hits of billions of dollars.

Megan Kelly

Routes, reassessments and regionalisation: How auto supply chains are turning trade changes into network gains

In our latest livestream, logistic experts explored how to capitalise on crises, examining finished vehicle routes, port congestion and a fluctuating EV landscape

Charlie Blackie-Kelly

Actions taken by OEMs to curb effects of tariffs

Since January, OEMs have been making strategic decisions to reshape their supply chains to mitigate against the effects of US president Donald Trump’s tariffs and trade shifts.

Megan Kelly

James McLoughlin

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Vehicle ro-ro exports continue to recover at Barcelona while containerised imports double

The port of Barcelona has registed an increase in vehicle exports in 2024 and while imports have dropped overall, cars in containers imported have more than doubled.

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

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

VW Group moves more than 1.2m vehicles through German port of Emden in 2024; almost 5% down on previous year

Volkswagen Group imported and exported 1.2m vehicles through Emden port in 2024, including 419,000 battery electric vehicles and hybrids, and is bringing in a new dock and yard management system.

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

Updated July 2 2025 – The strategy of nearshoring is reshaping supply chains, bringing immense opportunities and challenges to the forefront. We sat down on the Red Sofa with experts leading the trend across the automotive supply chain.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

Kjell Gruner takes over as head of VW Group of America; Henning Habicht to lead operations at Chattanooga

Kjell Gruner is now president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America (VWGoA), while Henning Habicht has been promoted to lead operations at the carmaker’s Chattanooga plant.

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.

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.

Transforming automotive logistics: Key insights from ALSC DS Europe 2024 day 1

Catch the key moments from Day 1 in Munich! From diversity and talent forums to cutting-edge AI and robotics, we explored how innovation is transforming the automotive supply chain.

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

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

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

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

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.

Volkswagen extends Unipart contract to include SAP Enterprise Warehouse Management across service parts network in UK

Volkswagen Group has signed a two-year contract with Unipart Signite to support its SAP Enterprise Warehouse Management rollout for service parts distribution in the UK.

Frank Göller explains how Catena-X is making manufacturing logistics processes more efficient and resilient

Catena-X, the worldwide initiative to create an open data-sharing network, has moved into a new phase of international development. Audi’s head of digital strategy and portfolio management for production and logistics, Frank Göller, is head of internationalisation at the Catena-X association. He explains to Automotive Logistics how developing global standards for cross-border data exchange will make manufacturing logistics processes more efficient and resilient.

Day 1 highlights: Logistics leaders tackle Mexico’s supply chain challenges at Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico 2024

Christopher Ludwig, chief content officer, Automotive Logistics takes us to the Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico exclusive gala dinner after a full day packed with cutting-edge insights, insightful discussions, and networking…

Volkswagen looking to restructure across Passenger Car, Group Components and Commercial Vehicles divisions

Volkswagen is planning to close at least three plants in Germany, make further staff redundancies and cut pay by 10% across its workforce, according to the head of VW’s works council, Daniela Cavallo. It is the first time in the company’s 87-year history that it has considered shutting down plants in its German industrial heartland.

Peter Koltai highlights the power of predictive analytics and holistic logistics in shaping a resilient EV production network

As VW Group expands its North American footprint, Peter Koltai, head of production control and logistics at Volkswagen de Mexico, tells Automotive Logistics how predictive analytics and AI are reshaping the company’s logistics to meet the challenges of electric vehicle (EV) production and sustainability.

VW Group opens dedicated vehicle terminal at Freeport

Volkswagen Group of America (VWGoA) has officially opened a vehicle terminal facility at Port Freeport in Texas following an investment of $114m.

VW’s Paulo Monteiro tackles “super extra complexity” with strategic matrix amid supply chain disruptions

VW Group of America is tackling the complexity of supply chain disruptions with a flexible matrix of strategies, including commodities multiple sourcing, multiple product assembly capabilities and a strong, resilient and diverse workforce.

ALSC Global 2024: Conference Day 1 wrap-up

Christopher Ludwig, Chief Content Officer, Automotive Logistics takes us on a river cruise in Detroit after day one of the Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Global 2024 conference…

The latest insights from Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Global 2024

Hello everyone and welcome to the Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Global 2024 recap blog, from our event which took place on 24-26th September at the Henry Hotel in Dearborn, Michigan. Stay tuned to get the latest updates and insights on our conference speakers and the sessions here!

Shopping and shipping with Volkswagen in Emden

Volkswagen’s Mirko Bührmann appears to have a clear and simple order. The logistics planner has only written down three things on his shopping list: Nutella, two jars, Mett (raw pork), five portions, and hard cheese, also five portions. However, the ’supermarket’ Bührmann is shopping in is in fact his professional home – VW’s assembly plant in Emden, northwest Germany. This is where he coordinates orders for small parts.

ALSC Mexico 2024 set to return to Mexico City for 10th year

More than 550 leading OEMs, logistics providers, supply chain technology specialists and officials will reunite during the event.

Toyota leads sales hike in Ukraine ahead of war tax

Ukrainian finished vehicle imports and sales have been booming in recent months, partly in anticipation of the 15% war tax, which is planned for introduction in September this year and could badly affect the market.

Steffen Reiche takes over as logistics leadership at VW Commercial Vehicles

Steffen Reiche is set to take over from Josef Baumert as member of the board of management responsible for production and logistics at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV).

ALSC Digital Strategies North America: Recap blog

Follow our recap blog below for key highlights and knowledge shared at Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies North America 2024, which focused on digitalising North America’s end-to-end automotive supply chain. Following the event in Nashville on 26-27 June, we will continue sharing news and features that relate to the speakers and companies involved in the event. Keep following the blog, as we will share videos straight from the main stage and the Red Sofa at the event!

Europe imposes tariffs up to 38% on Chinese EV imports

The European Commission (EC) has made the decision to impose additional tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese EVs, following preliminary results of its anti-subsidy investigation which found that prices are being distorted by Chinese state support.

Red Sofa Interview: VW’s Anu Goel on thinking regionally in FVL

Anu Goel, executive vice-president, Group After Sales & Service, Volkswagen Group speaks to Christopher Ludwig, chief content officer, Automotive Logistics about bringing together North America’s US, Canada and Mexico vehicle logistics divisions under a Virtual Task Force to explore more opportunities that are beneficial for the region as a whole.

Volkswagen Group’s North America vehicle logistics approach saves cost and delivery time

In the last year, Volkswagen Group of America’s finished vehicle logistics teams have united their US, Mexico and Canada divisions, under the umbrella of Anu Goel’s leadership and ’Virtual Task Force’. Now, Goel and the team are seeing results, not only in efficiency and capacity, but in millions of dollars’ worth of working capital and transport savings.

VW responds to EU imposing up to 38% tariffs on Chinese EVs

Volkswagen Group has responded to the European Commission’s (EU) decision to impose additional tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese EVs, following preliminary results of its anti-subsidy investigation which found that prices are being distorted by Chinese state support.

Volkswagen relies on localisation in Europe for EV project

Volkswagen Group has decided to make all-electric entry-level mobility more widespread, with affordable electric vehicles (EVs) made in Europe for sale in Europe, and will do so by relying on localisation on the continent.

How to democratise data and enable transparency in FVL

Sharing data and knowledge in finished vehicle logistics, and across the wider automotive logistics sector, will be beneficial for OEMs and tier suppliers alike – but despite this, there is still a reluctance to break the industry norms and trust other parties with data and information. At this year’s Finished Vehicle Logistics North America conference, leaders from Ford, Subaru, VW and more spoke about why it’s necessary to break the status quo and democratise data to see effective results.

Hoerndlein to lead vehicle logistics for Volkswagen Group Logistics; Bronder moves to SAIC JV

Volkswagen Group Logistics has appointed Peter Hoerndlein as its new head of vehicle logistics, taking over from Oliver Bronder, who is moving to head up logistics at VW’s largest Chinese joint venture, SAIC-VW in Shanghai.

FVL NA in pictures: Day 2

Speakers from Ford, BMW, NIssan and Volkswagen took the stage to share important insights from the finished vehical sector in North America.

FVL North America 2024 Day 1 wrap-up

Join us inside the Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2024 Gala Dinner as we break down the discussions from the day, including innovation in supply chain management, disrupting the status quo in FVL, integrating across divisions to improve visibility and efficienct, and building partnerships for long-term growth.

FVL North America 2024 Cocktail Reception wrap-up

Join us inside the Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2024 Cocktail Reception as we get revved up for the hottest topics in automotive logistics. Centred on discussions of disrupting the status quo of FVL in the region, we will hear about the innovation in supply chain management and transportation solutions, flexibility and the importance of partnerships and sustainability.

Sharing risk drives supplier relations for GM, Stellantis, Honda, Nissan

The key driver in improving supplier relations is sharing risk and cost in an equitable way, according to an annual study by Plante Moran.

DP World provides cross-border containerised vehicle delivery service

From the beginning of June this year DP World will be providing an intermodal rail service for containerised car shipments between Mexico, the US and Canada. The port terminal and inland logistics provider is using 16-metre (53ft) containers with R-Rak cassette systems in answer to the ro-ro and multilevel rail-capacity shortage for vehicle shipments in North America.

Danny Auerswald returns to VW Saxony to oversee technology and logistics

From the beginning of July this year Danny Auerswald will take over as managing director of VW Saxony, a role that includes leadership of technology and logistics at the Zwickau, Chemnitz and Dresden plants. He will be effectively managing a production network that is currently 100% electric vehicle. Auerswald replaces Robert Janssen, who moves to lead production and product management at SAIC Volkswagen in Shanghai as executive vice-president.

Baltimore port on the rebound after bridge collapse

Trade at the US’ busiest vehicle handling port in Baltimore has been overshadowed since March 26 by the destruction of the Francis Scott Key bridge, which has disrupted the flow of vessel traffic in and out of the port.

Highlights from ALSC Europe day one

At our recent Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Europe 2024 conference in Bonn, Germany we heard from some of the biggest OEMs, logistics partners and tier suppliers in the continent, who discussed how to deliver a competitive edge through logistics. While the event may be over, Automotive Logistics will continue to bring some of the most important and insightful highlights from the conference.

Taking the supply chain for an x-ray

Carmakers are working hard to transform manufacturing and supply chain operations up to an Industry 4.0 standard of efficiency and connectivity. A digitally supported strategy for product lifecycle management in assembly and supply is one that ultimately relies on a core IT infrastructure.

Rebuilding resilience and stability for a more sustainable supply chain

The multiple crises the automotive industry has experienced over the last four years have been a driver for innovation for inbound and outbound logistics processes, according to speakers at this year’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Europe conference in Bonn, Germany.

Red Sofa Interview: VW’s Oliver Bronder on turning disruptions into strategic advantages

With a focus on reliability, transparency, and the strategic importance of logistics, Bronder delves into how Volkswagen is navigating the complexities of the automotive supply chain to emerge stronger and more resilient.

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

VW cancels ID.3 assembly plans at Wolfsburg plant

Volkswagen has cancelled plans to build the ID.3 EV at its Wolfsburg plant in Germany, which was planned for summer 2024. The carmaker said it will continue to bundle ID.3 volume assembly at its Zwickau plant in the east of Germany “to effectively utilise the already fully installed location”, according to a spokesperson for the carmaker.

Automotive Logistics marks International Women’s Day

To commemorate International Women’s Day, Automotive Logistics is sharing a collection of recent features and interviews with prominent women in the automotive logistics sector.

The many roads, fuels and tech leading to zero emission logistics at Volkswagen Group

Volkswagen Group Logistics’ plan for cutting supply chain emissions will require multiple transport modes, technology innovation and investment with logistics partners for the long term.

Ready for any crisis, anywhere in Volkswagen Group’s supply chain

Crisis management has become de rigueur for Group Logistics, and has led to changes in capacity planning, visibility and mindset across the company.

The electrifying influence of logistics

Volkswagen’s ramp up of battery and electric vehicle production is transforming its supply chain, and Simon Motter wants to make sure that it takes the right decisions for logistics costs and performance, including an increased use of rail for battery-related transport.

The quest for one source of truth in Volkswagen Group’s digital supply chain

Group Logistics is accelerating digitalisation, from cloud-based systems to vehicle logistics, with the aim of improving data quality and better leveraging visibility, insights and AI applications.

How Group Logistics is overcoming crises and shaping Volkswagen's future supply chain

Volkswagen Group Logistics can increasingly master disruptions thanks to greater resiliency, but its managing director Simon Motter is making sure the group is ready to deliver on long-term goals for electrification, sustainability and cost.

VW Group UK partners with Ecobat to recycle EV batteries

VW Group UK has signed an agreement with battery recycling firm Ecobat to collect and recycle its EV batteries and close the loop in the carmaker’s circular energy economy.

GM, Tesla, BYD, Toyota & VW at risk of forced labour in Chinese aluminium supply chains

Global carmakers including GM, Tesla, BYD, Toyota and Volkswagen are failing to minimise the risk of Uyghur forced labour being used in aluminium sourcing.

Red Sofa Interview: Navistar to use VW Group and Traton cross-docking in North America and Mexico

Haley Wilson, logistics director at Navistar, is working with Volkswagen Group in North America and the wider Traton Group to enhance best practices, share processes and consolidation such as cross-docking, which will improve logistics while Navistar ramps up its EV production.

Red Sofa Interview: VW Truck & Bus Mexico’s plans to increase localisation

Halley Vieira, plant manager in Production and Logistics, VW Truck & Bus Mexico discusses the decision to localise in Mexico rather than import parts from Brazil, and how synergies with VW Group and Traton Group are playing an increasingly important role in the plant’s logistics.

Red Sofa Interview: VW Chattanooga is sharing EV logistics learnings with the VW Group

Watch Paulo Monteiro, head of Logistics, VW Group of America Chattanooga Operations discuss how the Chattanooga plant is leading the way in terms of EV logistics, and why it is sharing its findings with the wider Volkswagen Group and its resurrected Scout brand.

Red Sofa Interview: How Volkswagen is readying for electrification in México

Peter Koltai, senior director of logistics at Volkswagen de México discusses how the division is getting ready for electrification across the country and how to find synergies between the plants and the wider VW Group.

Susanne Lehmann brings global supply chain experience to VW Group Malaysia

Logistics veteran Dr Susanne Lehmann is now managing director for Volkswagen Group in Malaysia, leading the group’s supply chain, production and sales in the country as the OEM seeks to increase volume there and in wider south-east Asia.

Red Sofa Interview: VW logistics using rail and digital twins to boost sustainable operations in US and Mexico

Christoph Hartmann, head of Transport Networks, VW Group Logistics is using digital twins to help improve inbound logistics, and is adapting lessons learned in Europe to boost digitalisation and sustainability.

Red Sofa Interview: VW’s global logistics experts on synergy in the supply chain

Watch Volkswagen Group’s top global logistics experts weigh in on why synergy and collaboration between business units is critical to improving operations, sustainability and advancements within the supply chain.

PowerCo and Umicore JV Ionway appoints Philip Fimmers as supply chain head

Ionway, a battery materials producer, has appointed Philip Fimmers as its global supply chain manager.

Škoda begins exports from Europe to Vietnam

Škoda has begun exporting its Kodiaq and Karoq models from the Czech Republic to Vietnam and has opened its first dealership in Hanoi.

An automotive supply chain in transition – the year in review

This year has seen investments in supply chain resilience and the adoption of digital technology across the global automotive sector continue, with some positive developments in terms of inbound parts deliveries and greater supply chain transparency supported by digital technology, though strike action by the United Auto Workers union has taken its toll on production in the US in the fourth quarter.

Skoda adopts SAP digital platform for logistics overhaul at Vrchlabí

Skoda Auto is implementing the SAP S/4 Hana digital platform for system logistics at its Vrchlabí gearbox plant in the Czech Republic. The switch to the enterprise resource planning software is part of a group-wide initiative called Project One Log, which the carmaker said will replace a variety of existing legacy systems.

VW Group looks for partnerships to build a resilient North American supply chain

As it expands operations in North America, Volkswagen Group is intensifying its collaboration strategy, both internally between departments and with its logistics providers. By doing so it is finding greater sustainable intermodal efficiencies on the inbound delivery of parts.

How Volkswagen Mexico is digitalising its supply chain

As Mexico’s supply chain grows, so too do challenges and opportunities for digitalisation. Peter Koltai, senior director of production control and logistics at Volkswagen de México, told delegates at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Mexico 2023 how he is using digital tools such as artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce risk and drive profit.

Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico: Day one wrap-up

Christopher Ludwig, editor-in-chief, closes out day one of the Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico conference at the Time:Matters hosted Gala Dinner.

Hyundai to sell vehicles through Amazon and move supply chain operations to the cloud

Hyundai and Amazon have announced a strategic partnership that will enable customers to buy vehicles online in the US and improve business operations by moving to Amazon Web Services (AWS), the cloud computing unit of Amazon.

ALSC Digital Strategies 2023 - Wrap-up day two

The automotive supply chain remains under pressure while the industry is electrifying and seeing new components and materials coming into play. At day two of the inaugural Automotive Logisitcs & Supply Chain conference in Munich, we heard from even more expert speakers to find out how new data possibilities and technologies can be leveraged to the industry’s advantage.

Red Sofa Interview: Seat’s Alexandre Lerma on control tower creation for automated, robust and flexible supply chains

From automation-driven advancements to the reformation of operational frameworks, Lerma envisions a future shaped by cross-functional teams impacting both pre-production and commercial activities. Yet, the primary challenge lies in rallying more suppliers to collaborate within this innovative framework.In Lerma’s vision, collaboration, fueled by data alignment and pioneering functionalities, will be the cornerstone of Seat SA’s quest for a robust, adaptable, and interconnected automotive ecosystem.

Red Sofa Interview: Volkswagen’s Frank Göller on Catena-X and supercharging automotive supply chains

At the recent Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Digital Strategies conference in Germany, Frank Göller, head of digital production and processes, Volkswagen Group, and vice-president of internationalisation at Catena-X, said the data-sharing platform is built on strong automotive players who shared the same ideas and agenda, including collaboration and data security. But what does that mean for automotive supply chains and logistics? Watch to find out more…

Red Sofa Interview: Autoliv’s Dr Gisela Linge on the human-centric engine driving digitalisation

Dr Gisela Linge, supply chain vice president at Autoliv says the key to embedding digitalisation is to “first embed this in our way of working and thinking,” making digitalisation human-centric and having the problems of key users in mind.

Exchanging healthy and trusted data in the supply chain

Digital twins can help improve quality and efficiency while driving future innovations within the supply chain, but many are still hesitant to share their data. At Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Digital Strategies 2023, experts weigh in on how Catena-X could provide a solution and encourage more trust when it comes to data sharing.

VW Group steers production in line with dropping demand for EVs

In its performance update for the first nine months of 2023 Volkswagen Group said the automotive industry is “currently experiencing a general reluctance [by customers] to buy battery-powered models” and that “the overall market trend… fell short of expectations”.

Floods in Slovenia impact European supply chain

Major flooding in Slovenia throughout the last month has affected manufacturing facilities and supply chains in Slovenia and across Europe, hitting the production of carmakers including Volkswagen.

Volkswagen Group takes more control over semiconductor procurement

Volkswagen Group is reorganising its procurement of electronic parts and semiconductors to ensure supply over the long term and avoid the risk of bottlenecks.

EVs “in good condition” after Fremantle Highway ro-ro fire

EVs on board car carrier Fremantle Highway are reported to be “in good condition” and salvageable after a fire that broke out on the vessel on 25th July, according to first inspections.

Seat appoints Marc Riera as executive vice president for Purchasing

Spanish carmaker Seat has appointed Marc Riera as its new executive vice president for Purchasing to replace Alfonso Sancha who has transferred to Volkswagen Group China.

Former VW plant in Russia reported to be acquired, assemble kits from Chery

A former Volkswagen plant in Kaluga, western Russia, is reported to be negotiating plans to assemble kits from China’s Chery

Battery supply chain could bottleneck in 2025, says analyst

The supply of lithium batteries for electric vehicle (EV) production could bottleneck from 2025 as demand for EVs outstrips the available capacity for battery production.

Volkswagen chooses Acertus for railhead logistics in Illinois

Volkswagen Group of America has contracted Acertus on an initial three-year contract to provide transport management at its railhead ramp in Centerville, Illinois. The finished vehicle logistics provider will be providing last-mile vehicle haulage, as well as using its own software to build efficient loads for VW.

Data visibility provides a crystal ball for VW’s port quality operations

Volkswagen is now able to standardise and improve the vehicle inspection and repair process at its port locations in North America, with greater transparency on logistics flow and a more accurate ETA for vehicle deliveries, supported by software from Inform

VW Group of America: what data points in the delivery chain help us act?

Anu Goel says it’s important for Volkswagen to determine what visibility logistics teams need versus what the customer needs – as they are not always the same.

Out of sight is not out of mind in today’s vehicle logistics

Giving the end customer an accurate date for the delivery of their vehicle has taken on greater importance since the Covid pandemic.

Volkswagen’s PowerCo to invest €4.8 billion in Canadian gigafactory

Volkswagen Group’s PowerCo battery division has revealed further details of its planned gigafactory in Canada, which it announced last month would be located in St Thomas, Ontario. It is the first battery cell facility PowerCo has announced in North America and is due to start production in 2027.

US Senate investigates forced labour in auto supply chain

The US Senate Committee on Finance is looking into the use of Chinese forced labour in the automotive supply chain, and has sent letters to global carmakers and tier one suppliers to ascertain how they are sourcing materials and overseeing their supply chains.

Bringing battery production in Europe up to speed

As carmakers in Europe scramble to localise pure electric vehicle (EV) production they have one major obstacle to overcome – Europe has no legacy of lithium-ion battery production. China has long dominated the mining, refining and production of battery cells, a situation that European carmakers were happy to go along with until very recently.

Interview: Audi’s Dieter Braun on leading a long-term sustainable supply chain strategy

Dieter Braun says the key to reducing emissions and making supply chains more sustainable is committment to Audi and the Volkswagen Group’s long-term strategy – as well as focusing on total emission calculations in transport and purchasing decisions, including for energy sources.

No light at the end of the tunnel

The German rail network is in dire need of restoration but now that work is finally going ahead carmakers are facing a decade of disruption and delay to the movement of parts and finished vehicles

PowerCo begins construction of Valencia gigafactory

Volkswagen Group’s battery spinoff PowerCo has officially launched construction on its second European gigafactory near Valencia in Spain. Production of unified cells at the €3 billion ($3.2 billion) facility is set to begin in 2026.

VW Group’s PowerCo to build battery gigafactory in Canada

VW Group’s lithium battery division, PowerCo, has announced plans to build a gigafactory in the province of Ontario. The battery cell facility, located in St Thomas, will be PowerCo’s first in North America, with production expected to begin in 2027.

Building a blueprint for battery logistics at PowerCo

As PowerCo sets up battery cell production for VW Group, its logistics organisation, led by Matthias Braun, has set out a vision and framework that will take the best from automotive and chemical sectors, and forge a new benchmark in supply chain transparency and connectivity

VW Group forecasts increase in deliveries as logistics problems ease

VW Group expects vehicle deliveries to rise to around 9.5m units in 2023 and sales revenue to increase by between 10-15% compared to 2022.

Cofinity-X platform aims to improve supply chain transparency

BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen are among ten companies that have set up a new joint venture platform for the automotive supply chain called Cofinity-X.

VW and PowerCo build on battery plans in Canada

Volkswagen Group and its PowerCo battery division, which was set up in July this year, are looking for locations in Canada to build a lithium-ion battery gigafactory.

Stronger logistics accelerate Mexico’s recovery

This session at Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Mexico focuses on how carmakers such as Volkswagen and logistics providers are improving logistics in Mexico to ensure the region remain a major competitive force in the North American and global industry.

Clean energy, flexibility, digital mindsets: conference day one in review at Automotive Logistics & Supply Chain Mexico

Mexico’s recovery depends on stronger logistics and more coordinated government policy to support clean energy, infrastructure, trade and electrification. Editor-in-chief Christopher Ludwig assesses the significance after discussions with leaders from Nissan, Toyota, Volkswagen, Audi, American Axle and more.

VW partners for strong logistics in Mexico – Interview with Peter Koltai, Volkswagen de Mexico

Peter Koltai, Senior Director for Production Control and Logistics at Volkswagen de Mexico speaks to Editor-in-Chief Christopher Ludwig about how the carmaker has been managing logistics disruption in Mexico, and how its supply chain is preparing to the launch of electric vehicle production in Puebla.

Volkswagen strives for strong logistics for a stronger future in Mexico

Carmakers and their suppliers of parts and logistics services are making some sizeable investments in Mexico following two years of Covid disruption. Those investments are essential to build flexibility and resilience into the supply chain for the future of the Mexican car industry, including producing electric vehicles.

Crisis management is about better communication

The semiconductor shortage is not the last global supply chain crisis the automotive industry is likely to see. Vehicle makers at last week’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Mexico conference said that proactive management based on better communication across the supply chain was the only way they were going to deal with future disruptions.

Mexico increases vehicle production and exports

Carmakers based in Mexico increased production and exports in October this year as supply chain constraints eased, according to the Mexican Automotive Industry Association (Amia). Mexico was the seventh biggest car making market globally in 2021.

Markus Haupt leads production and logistics at Seat

Markus Haupt has taken over from Herbert Steiner as executive vice-president of production and logistics at Spanish carmaker Seat.

Persistent parts shortages mean delay in vehicle deliveries for VW

Volkswagen Group has increased sales in the first three quarters of 2022 and doubled its operating result (before special items) compared to the same period last year. However, deliveries were down -12.1% because of a “persistent shortage of parts”, including semiconductors and wire harnesses.

Shedding the legacy of short-term contracts

The critical shortage of capacity for finished vehicle deliveries in Europe is making carmakers reassess their short-term contract arrangements with outbound logistics providers. At this autumn’s annual conference of the Association of European Vehicle Logistics (ECG), Toyota and VW Group said the industry cannot survive without longer-term contracts and closer collaboration to improve outbound visibility.

VW to start vehicle imports through Port Freeport

Volkswagen will start delivering its vehicles to the US through Port Freeport in Texas from early 2024. Annual throughput of imported vehicles from Mexico and Europe is expected to be 140,000 units and Freeport will become the carmaker’s main Gulf Coast hub.

Global automotive outlook: no return to normal

Leading analyst Joe McCabe shares insight on the key trends shaping the market, including EV forecasts, semiconductors and OEMs’ inventory and business models.

Mercedes-Benz and VW choose Canadian lithium supply for German gigafactories

Merecedes-Benz and Volkswagen Group have signed agreements with the Canadian government to secure future lithium supply for battery production in Europe.

Jaxport promotes James Bennett to chief operating officer role

Jacksonville Port Authority (Jaxport) has promoted James Bennett to chief operating officer. He moves from his role as senior director of engineering and construction and will use that expertise to oversee projects including a major automotive and container expansion on Blount Island.

Factory closures extended in China as drought continues

Carmaker Toyota and electronics supplier Foxconn are among companies that have been forced to shut down their operations in China’s Sichuan province because of a heatwave that has prompted a water and electricity supply crisis.

Threadbare trade on the Silk Road

The war in Ukraine and subsequent sanctions on Russia have hit container shipments by rail between Europe and China, with repercussions for automotive supply and the further complications for ocean freight

How Audi wants to use its supply chain as a force for good

Audi’s head of procurement strategy, Marco Philippi, is pushing its supply chain towards meeting ethical and environmental targets, while managing structural changes for global purchasing in a new world order

Lithium-ion battery gigafactory database

Track electric vehicle lithium battery gigafactories by manufacturer, location, manufacturer, current and planned gigawatt (GWh) capacity.

Oliver Blume to replace Diess as CEO of Volkswagen Group

Oliver Blume will take over as chief executive of the Volkswagen Group in September this year, replacing Herbert Diess. Blume, currently Porsche CEO and a former head of production and logistics for the premium OEM, will take over as the VW Group transforms its manufacturing and supply chain to meet electrification targets.

VW pulling out of production at Nizhny Novgorod

Volkswagen Group is permanently pulling out of contract production at the Nizhny Novgorod plant in Russia where it assembles VW and Skoda brand vehicles with Russian carmaker Gaz. It ends an agreement that was first signed in 2011 and was due to run, under its contract renewal, until at least 2025.

Stefan Krug returns to Brose to oversee plant and logistics operations

Brose has appointed Stefan Krug as its executive vice-president of operations, overseeing plant operations, factory planning, production technology, quality control and logistics.

Battery problems halt assembly of Volkswagen’s ID.Buzz in Hanover

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has halted production of its ID.Buzz electric van in Hanover for one week because of quality problems with the lithium battery.

Watch FVL highlights: ETA, capacity, driver shortages and collaboration

Editor-in-Chief Christopher Ludwig summarises key takeaways from Finished Vehicle Logistics North America 2022, where vehicle ETA, capacity and costs were major concerns, but so were finding practical ways to work together.

Watch: Volkswagen dealers want better vehicle logistics visibility

Ray Mikiciuk, senior vice-president of sales at Volkswagen Group of America, says vehicle ETA is a top priority for the OEM’s dealer body in the US – and that is changing how sales work with supply chain teams.

Watch: Vehicle logistics for a new era of build-to-order

Dealers and customers, want visibility of vehicle orders – and OEMs and logistics partners must provide it. Volkswagen’s SVP for sales, and leaders from Cox Automotive, Inform and SFL Companies discuss how to make it happen.

Outbound sector needs accurate deliveries in the nick of time

In the midst of continuing disruption to the automotive supply chain from a variety of causes there has never been a greater importance attached to getting finished vehicles to market on time.

Watch: Shanghai rises again for Volkswagen’s supply chain

Despite Covid lockdowns and disruptions, SAIC Volkswagen remains a production powerhouse. In a wide-ranging video interview, executive director of logistics at the joint venture, Dr Susanne Lehmann, discusses managing scale with partners, digitalising logistics and creating more transparency across the supply chain.

Logistics in another dimension for SAIC VW in China

Last autumn Dr Susanne Lehmann joined Volkswagen Group’s joint venture with Chinese vehicle maker SAIC – SAIC VW – as executive director of logistics. She talks to Automotive Logistics about managing Covid lockdowns and supply chain disruption in China with new tools and closer supplier collaboration, and the fast pace of digitalisation

Russia struggles to repair its broken supply chain

In a bid to save what is left of its automotive industry, Russia is taking measures to establish new supply chains and logistics networks following the breakdown caused by the international sanctions applied in the wake of the Ukraine war.

Car industry looks for more vertical integration to avoid risk

Carmakers and their suppliers have had two years full of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (Vuca) and are actively looking for new strategies to mitigate risk in the supply chain secure future production.

A time of risk and uncertainty for vehicle logistics in Europe

At this year’s General Assembly and Spring Congress for the Association for European Vehicle Logistics (ECG), members from the top outbound logistics providers and their OEM customers discussed the current disruption affecting the business and the creative solutions used to deal with it

Watch: Charging up battery logistics at Volkswagen

Volkswagen Group is building its own gigafactories in Europe, and Matthias Braun is helping to define the logistics. Hear how the OEM and logistics providers like Maersk and Orbis are redefining standards and processes during this panel discussion in Munich.

Speed and standards are key to the automotive future

Things are changing fast in the automotive industry. The Covid pandemic set off a chain of disruptive events that forced many into crisis management they are still living. There have been more changes in the last two years than there probably have been in the previous 20.

An electric shock for VW Group’s supply chain in Europe

Volkswagen Group is investing €10 billion ($10.6 billion) to build a lithium battery gigafactory in Sagunto, Spain as it accelerates the localisation of battery production for its electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe. At this year’s Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain (ALSC) Europe conference, Matthias Braun, head of battery cell logistics at the VW brand, explained why the carmaker is investing more in European battery production and what that means for its logistics and supplier base.

Critical port congestion in China threatens carmakers

China’s zero-Covid policy has led to a serious lockdown in Shanghai. Suppliers are unable to get key components out of the world’s busiest container port because stringent Covid-testing procedures have halted operations and there are currently record numbers of vessels waiting to dock.

MAN’s energy division uses synthetic gas in commercial shipping

MAN Energy Solutions has implemented a blend of synthetic natural gas to achieve emission reductions on a containership, which could pave the way for greener fuels to reduce emissions in global shipping.

CATL powers ahead with a regional, sustainable supply chain strategy

With a new carbon-neutral gigafactory in China, and a plant set to start production this year in Germany, the Chinese battery cell producer is scaling its production and logistics to create secure and sustainable battery supply.

Automotive logistics in Russia is in tatters

Already debilitated by the impact of Covid, the Russian automotive market was hoping for better times ahead, but the invasion of Ukraine and the consequent sanctions imposed on Russia have undermined production and sales, and hit the logistics providers hard

China’s zero-Covid strategy hampers auto output in Shanghai

Vehicle output in China is being disrupted by the government’s introduction of a coronavirus lockdown in Shanghai, which is now in its second week and has forced automakers to cease operations.

Ukraine’s vital link in the European supply chain

The shutdown of much industry, trade and logistics out of Ukraine is hurting automotive production and driving up logistics and bunker costs for European logistics providers.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a long-term risk for the automotive supply chain

The impacts stretch beyond inflation and corporate retreats to critical shortages upstream for semiconductor and EV supply.

Felicity Ace car carrier sinks in Atlantic

Two weeks after fire took hold of the car carrier vessel Felicity Ace, the vessel has sunk in the Atlantic, around 220 nautical miles south of the Azores.

Ukraine invasion causes widespread supply chain disruption

Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine has already had widespread repercussions across Europe’s automotive supply chain and supporting multimodal logistics network.

VW Group vehicles burn aboard abandoned MOL vessel in Atlantic

The Mitsui OSK Line (MOL) vessel Felicity Ace is on fire in the mid-Atlantic with large consignment of VW Group vehicles aboard. The 22-person crew has been forced to abandon the vessel. All have been rescued safely.

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.

VW and Bosch to upscale EV battery output in Europe

Volkswagen and tier one supplier Robert Bosch have agreed to establish a joint venture by the end of 2022 to expand the production of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe.

VW extends contract with Unipart Logistics in UK

Volkswagen Group has extended its contract with Unipart Logistics for aftermarket services in the UK and Ireland for a further two years. The logistics provider has been working with VW in the UK since 2018.

A shift in priorities for the supply chain

Supply chain logistics has taken centre stage as the automotive sector fights for recovery in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic. Jason Dunn reports on the advances made in digital applications designed to tackle disruption and why stronger partnerships are every bit as important as the technology being used

Matthias Braun to head battery cell logistics at VW Group

Following last month’s decision by Volkswagen Group to create its own European company for the management of its lithium battery supply, Matthias Braun (pictured) has indicated he is moving from his role as head of digitalisation and concept development at VW Group Logistics to a new role focusing on battery cell logistics.

AL FVL Winter 2021 digital edition – Vision80: a new line of sight for Lotus Cars

The winter edition of Automotive and Finished Vehicle Logistics magazine is out now, featuring an in-depth focus on the fast-paced transformation at Lotus Cars. Michael Dickinson, executive director of supply at the high-end sportscar maker, explains how integrating supply chain functions and scaling operations will put Lotus on the map.

FVL Family Feud – a game that challenges new ideas and innovations

Tune in for this fun, interactive game involving industry innovators from Volkswagen, Nissan and Glovis, along with plenty of audience participation. ’Survey says…’ the industry is ready to change and try new things.

VW Group rail link makes vehicle logistics more sustainable in Spain

This month Spanish carmaker and VW Group subsidiary Seat will begin a weekly rail service linking its plant in Martorell, Spain with the Volkswagen Autoeuropa factory in Palmela.

Walker replaces Kössler as head of Audi’s production and logistics

Peter Kössler will hand over responsibility for Audi’s production and logistics to Gerd Walker (pictured) at the beginning of February next year. Walker is currently head of production at the Wolfsburg plant of parent company Volkswagen Group in Germany.

A more sustainable supply chain does not have to cost the earth

The automotive industry now has a deadline to clean up its act but that is not just in terms of the electric vehicles it has to make. It also means making the method in which inbound parts are moved and how the finished vehicles are delivered to market more sustainable.

AL FVL Autumn 2021 digital edition – Moving forward together through disruption

The autumn digital edition of Automotive Logistics and Finished Vehicle Logistics magazine is out now, featuring a four-part, in-depth special on Renault Group, in which its top executive for supply chain and logistics, Jean-François Salles, explains the supply chain revolution underway at the carmaker

Building a better North American supply chain with Nissan, Toyota, Honda and Volkswagen

To cap off the Automotive Logistics and Supply Chain Global Live conference, senior supply chain and logistics leaders discuss and debate the key challenges and opportunities defining their organisations’ pathway to success.