German automaker Volkswagen will suspend production of several car models due to a shortage of semiconductors. This situation arose due to uncertainty about cooperation with component manufacturer Nexperia.
First of all, the measure will affect the production of the Golf model, then the Tiguan assembly lines will be stopped. Semiconductor stocks are sufficient for the full operation of factories in normal mode for the next week, but then the company will have to stop the assembly line.
Industry journalists are calling this situation a "disaster" for Volkswagen. The company is already experiencing serious financial difficulties due to high US duties and increased competition from Chinese manufacturers.
Volkswagen plans to transfer some employees to temporary part-time employment, which could affect tens of thousands of workers.
Nexperia is owned by the Chinese concern Wingtech. It produces microchips for the European automotive industry.