Hurricane Helene's devastation in North Carolina has created a potential significant disruption to the global semiconductor supply chain, particularly impacting the high-purity quartz mines in Spruce Pine. This quartz is essential for producing semiconductors used in automotive electronics, including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and electric vehicle components. The resulting semiconductor shortages could lead to delays in vehicle manufacturing and repair services, highlighting the need for greater supply chain resilience in the automotive industry.
Volvo’s decision to pull the plug on the 2030 all-electric date is about still being able to take the scenic route, albeit, using a generator. As much as the world talks about going green and the all-electric future, the reality lies in practicality. And for now, hybrids are leading the way. In the words of Volvo’s CEO, “The future is electric.” Sure, just not entirely electric. Not yet, anyway.