Increased demand for consumer electronics such as smartphones and laptops during lockdown has led to a shortage of semiconductor chips. One of the most widely used components in electronic circuits, semiconductors are crucial for making a wide range of products, and the shortage is disrupting industries worldwide.
The shortage has also affected car and van production, exposing fleets to much longer lead times. Up to six months and longer in some cases.
While some manufacturers have removed some of the extra options that require more chips, some are shifting production to models that are in high demand such as low and zero-emission vehicles.