Car companies are losing production because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine but are beginning to find new sources for the crucial wiring harnesses that the country specialises in.
Vehicle production could be down as much as 15% in Europe in the first half of this year because of the war, bank Wells Fargo has estimated, further depressing output during the wider semiconductor shortage.
BMW has said that production at its factories, including the Mini plant in Oxford, will return to normal this week after shutdowns caused by parts shortages, but the company also said in a statement that it expects continued supply restrictions linked to the war.
Other car makers forced to slow production because of war-related shortages include Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Skoda and Volkswagen.
