Core Insights - Global auto executives are warning of an imminent shortage of rare-earth magnets from China, which are essential for various automotive systems, potentially leading to U.S. car plant shutdowns within weeks [1] Group 1: Supply Chain Disruptions - The head of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation raised concerns in a letter to the Trump administration about the shortage of rare-earth magnets from China, which could disrupt U.S. vehicle production [2][3] - China controls over 90% of global processing for rare-earth magnets and introduced new export rules in April, causing a 50% drop in exports due to complicated permit application processes [5] - U.S. automakers are at risk of production halts due to the shortage, with some Indian car manufacturers potentially facing shutdowns as early as June [8] Group 2: Economic Impact - The rare-earth shortage poses a serious threat to automakers, particularly those relying on just-in-time inventory systems, which could disrupt production schedules and delay vehicle rollouts [9] - The tariff impacts are expected to reduce U.S. auto sales by approximately 500,000 vehicles, negatively affecting automakers' sales and earnings [12] - General Motors has cut its 2025 guidance due to macroeconomic uncertainty, while Ford has suspended its full-year 2025 guidance, warning of potential costs up to $2.5 billion from tariffs [12] Group 3: Strategic Responses - To mitigate risks, automakers are diversifying and localizing supply chains, with General Motors investing in a magnet production facility in Texas and Volkswagen securing magnet supplier licenses in Europe [10]
Shortage of Rare-Earth Magnets Endangers US Vehicle Production