Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2025-06-12 15:23Core Viewpoint - Multiple automotive companies are facing a "panic" due to a shortage of rare earth materials, which are critical for automotive production, particularly in electric vehicles [1][2][4]. Group 1: Impact on Automotive Production - Suzuki has temporarily halted operations on some production lines in Japan due to delays in receiving rare earth component shipments from China, affecting automotive electronic systems and engine parts [1]. - The Indian automotive industry is at risk, with major manufacturers like Tata, Maruti Suzuki, and Mahindra having only three days' worth of rare earth magnet inventory left, potentially leading to widespread production halts [2]. - Ford has also paused production of its Explorer SUV due to similar rare earth shortages [2]. Group 2: Export Control Measures - The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced export control measures on seven types of rare earth materials, effective from April 4, which has led to significant delays in obtaining export licenses for these materials [1][3]. - Only 25% of the rare earth export license applications submitted by European component manufacturers have been approved since April, causing production delays and temporary shutdowns in some European automotive companies [2]. Group 3: Importance of Rare Earth Elements - Rare earth elements play a crucial role in automotive manufacturing, especially in electric vehicles, where materials like neodymium-iron-boron significantly enhance power density, acceleration, and range [4][5]. - Each pure electric vehicle consumes 5 to 10 kg of neodymium-iron-boron, while plug-in hybrid vehicles consume 2 to 3 kg [4]. Group 4: Supply Chain Adjustments - In response to the rare earth crisis, multinational automotive companies may consider adjusting their supply chains to produce rare earth-related components in China to leverage local supply chain advantages [6]. - Companies like Tesla, Ford, and Toyota are accelerating the development of technologies to reduce reliance on rare earth magnets, with Toyota working on "rare earth-free motors" [6]. Group 5: Strategic Cooperation and Inventory Management - Experts suggest that multinational companies should maintain strategic cooperation with China rather than rush to restructure supply chains, which could incur higher costs [7]. - Increasing inventory and optimizing supply chain management for raw materials are recommended strategies to mitigate the impact of such crises [7].