在美建厂太难？台积电出动无人机自救

Core Viewpoint - TSMC is considering the use of drones in its Arizona chip manufacturing facility to enhance operational efficiency and safety, amidst challenges faced during construction and local labor relations [1][2]. Group 1: Drone Utilization - TSMC is forming a drone team for its Arizona factory, currently in the bidding phase for drone suppliers, with a final list expected by the end of the year [1][2]. - Drones are intended for facility inspections, traffic monitoring, and disaster response, potentially reducing labor needs and risks for workers in hazardous environments [2]. Group 2: Expansion Plans - TSMC is accelerating the expansion of its Arizona facility, planning for one-third of its advanced chip production to occur there, driven by demand for AI and high-performance computing chips [4]. - The company has committed to a $100 billion investment plan in the U.S., with a reaffirmation of an additional $100 billion investment over the next five years to enhance manufacturing capabilities [4][5]. Group 3: Challenges in Japan - TSMC is slowing down the construction of its second wafer fab in Kumamoto, Japan, due to worsening traffic conditions and a lack of demand for mature process chips from automotive manufacturers [3][5]. - The start date for the Kumamoto fab has been postponed from early this year to later in the year, with further delays possible [6][7]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - The demand for AI chips from U.S. tech giants like NVIDIA and AMD is driving TSMC's investments in the U.S., while its facilities in Taiwan remain the core manufacturing sites [5]. - TSMC's cautious approach to capital expenditure is influenced by concerns over market capacity and the potential for high tariffs on imported chips, making U.S. production capacity a priority [7].