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Which automaker is hit hardest by chip shortage?

The global semiconductor chip shortage has been a significant challenge for the automotive industry, with various automakers facing production disruptions and supply chain issues. Among the hardest-hit companies is Toyota Motor Corporation, the world's largest automaker by volume.


Toyota's Struggle with the Chip Shortage


Toyota has been forced to cut its global production targets multiple times due to the chip shortage. In August 2022, the company announced it would reduce its global production target for the fiscal year by 300,000 vehicles, from 9.7 million to 9.4 million units. This came after the company had already lowered its production target earlier in the year.


The chip shortage has had a significant impact on Toyota's operations, with the company forced to temporarily suspend production at several of its plants in Japan and around the world. The company has also had to adjust its production schedules and prioritize the manufacture of its most popular and profitable models.


Reasons for Toyota's Vulnerability


There are several reasons why Toyota has been hit particularly hard by the chip shortage:



  • Just-in-time production model: Toyota is known for its highly efficient just-in-time production system, which relies on a lean supply chain. This makes the company more vulnerable to disruptions in the supply of critical components like semiconductors.

  • Reliance on older chip technology: Many of Toyota's vehicles use older, less advanced semiconductor chips, which are in high demand and short supply due to the global chip shortage.

  • Lack of chip stockpiling: Unlike some of its competitors, Toyota did not have a significant stockpile of semiconductor chips, leaving it more exposed to the supply chain disruptions.


These factors have contributed to Toyota's struggles in maintaining its production levels and meeting global demand for its vehicles.


Impact on the Automotive Industry


The chip shortage has had far-reaching consequences for the entire automotive industry. Many other major automakers, including General Motors, Ford, and Volkswagen, have also been forced to cut production and adjust their manufacturing plans. This has led to reduced vehicle availability, longer delivery times, and higher prices for consumers.


The chip shortage is expected to continue well into 2023, with some experts predicting that the issue may not be fully resolved until 2024 or later. This ongoing challenge has highlighted the need for the automotive industry to diversify its supply chains and invest in more resilient semiconductor production capabilities.

What company produces the most computer chips?


TSMC
Which Company is the largest Producer of semiconductor chips? TSMC is the largest semiconductor chip manufacturer. This company produces about 90% of high-performance chips across the globe. Also, it controls over 50% of the global semiconductor foundry market in terms of revenue.



Which car brands are in short supply?


Stellantis, GM, and Ford have above-average inventory in January 2025. Toyota, Honda, and Subaru have the tightest supply of new cars.



Will car prices drop in 2024?


Prices on new cars are expected to drop in 2024 as the industry moves beyond the supply-chain issues that pushed up auto prices during the pandemic, which will gradually ease the prices on used vehicles as well. That's welcome news for car shoppers who have faced record-high prices over the past couple of years.



Is the chip shortage getting any better?


By 2023, the automotive industry largely recovered with global car production up 3%. In the same year, the global chip shortage had mostly subsided.



What industries are hardest hit by the computer chip shortage?


First, let's start with the 4 industries hardest hit by the chip shortage:

  • PCs and Consumer Electronics.
  • Automotive.
  • LEDs.
  • Power Generation.



Is Toyota affected by the chip shortage?


But scandals involving rigged engine and safety tests at Toyota subsidiaries led the company to slightly revise down its sales volume target for the financial year. Chief financial officer Yoichi Miyazaki said that the chip shortage caused vehicle orders to "pile up" in early 2023.



Is Tesla affected by chip shortage?


Chip shortages have weighed heavily on Tesla's production, with Musk saying in January that part constraints were one of the primary reasons the automaker would not release any new vehicles this year.



Which car brand is most affected by chip shortage?


Here are a few of the companies that have been the worst-affected:

  • Jaguar Land Rover. Certain models have been almost discontinued by the brand, which apparently is to catch up with demand for other models.
  • Toyota.
  • Ford.
  • Volvo.
  • Honda.
  • Stellantis.
  • Volkswagen.
  • Nissan.



Is the auto industry in trouble in 2024?


2024 Was Rough for the Auto Industry; 2025 May Be Better. For many of us, the COVID-19 pandemic was a low point, and our lives have improved since it began to fade. For many automakers, the opposite is true. They saw record profits at the peak of the pandemic.



How does Toyota thrive when the chips are down?


The four sources said Toyota's early drive to develop a deep understanding of semiconductor design and manufacturing processes was a major reason why it has managed to avoid being hit by the shortages, in addition to its continuity contracts.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.