Qualcomm unveiled a major acceleration of its processors’ penetration of the car industry today at its Automotive Redefined event. Its experience with 5G and the Internet of Things is helping its next generation of chips power an Alexa-driven cockpit, the self-driving vehicle and electric charging.
An extension of its partnership with General Motors on such systems was also announced, but GM has more immediate chip concerns, along with the rest of the industry.
Our analysis of supply constraints in the chip sector, which have hit production for GM, Volkswagen, Honda, Fiat Chrysler, Nissan and others, suggests the shortage is expected to last at least six months.
The production of more than 280,000 vehicles has already been put on ice, according to data provider AutoForecast Solutions. IHS Markit forecasts that as many as 500,000 vehicles could ultimately be affected.
Consumer electronics companies’ needs have continued to take precedence, with just 10 per cent of semiconductor fabrication plants used for automotive parts and huge demand for games consoles,…
