Fuel For Thought

As we approach 2026, the automotive industry is bracing for yet another potential crisis: a shortage of dynamic random access memory (DRAM) chips. This anticipated shortage will not be quite as dramatic as the 2021 crisis—which prevented more than 10 million cars from being built that year—but could potentially be more disruptive and long-lasting than the 2025 Nexperia incident. DRAM is found in the compute-heavy systems in cars, namely in cockpit and in ADAS/Autonomy systems. However, major DRAM manufacturers are increasingly reallocating their wafer capacity toward high-bandwidth memory (HBM) for AI data centers. The profitability and demand for HBM far exceed those of traditional automotive applications, leaving automakers increasingly vulnerable to an automotive supply chain crunch that could rival the previous shortages. In this episode of Fuel for Thought, we dive deeper into the shortage and explain what automakers need to do in order to adapt.  Speakers:  Jeremie Bouchaud, Executive Director, Supply Chain and Technology, S&P Global Mobility Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting, S&P Global Mobility (Host)

Chinese automakers are not only reshaping their domestic market but are also becoming formidable players on the international stage. Their aggressive expansion into overseas markets, driven by a combination of competitive pricing, innovative technology, and strategic partnerships, poses both challenges and opportunities for established automakers. Moreover, as trade barriers and regulatory changes emerge in various regions, understanding how Chinese manufacturers adapt can provide valuable insights into the future of global automotive supply chains. In this episode of Fuel for Thought, we discuss how Chinese automakers are navigating global markets, the impact of tariffs and trade barriers, and the strategies these automakers are employing to expand their footprint. Speakers:   Abby Tu, Principal Research Analyst, S&P Global Mobility Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting, S&P Global Mobility (host) ·  

A decade ago, the path toward full electrification seemed clear. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) were seen as the inevitable future. But fast forward to today and that once-shared vision has fractured. Different regions are now taking distinctly different routes shaped by policy shifts, consumer sentiment, and economic realities. In this episode of Fuel for Thought, we unpack how these divergent strategies are influencing production planning, why transitional technologies like PHEVs and REEVs are gaining renewed relevance, and how scenario-based forecasting can help automakers stay agile in this fragmented market. Speakers: A. Saboor Imran, Principal Analyst, EMEA Light Vehicle Powertrain Forecasting, S&P Global Mobility Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting, S&P Global Mobility (host)   

Since May 3, 2025, automakers have been navigating a complex US trade policy which includes a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and parts from nearly all countries. Although trade negotiations may ultimately reduce this tariff rate, few new deals have been signed so far. Amidst this backdrop, early expectations of an immediate cost pass-through to consumers has not materialized. Instead, automakers have taken a more measured approach to their pricing and production strategies. Moving forward, three of the most important considerations for OEMs will be: Tariff exposure and pass-through feasibility, Competitive pricing, and Production sourcing flexibility. As uncertainty continues, manufacturers that can swiftly adapt to market changes and effectively communicate their value propositions to consumers will be better positioned to thrive in this challenging environment. Speakers:  Stephanie Brinley, Associate Director, AutoIntelligence, S&P Global Mobility Matt Trommer, Associate Director, Innovation Product Management and Industry Performance, S&P Global Mobility Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting, S&P Global Mobility (host)  

In this podcast episode, experts from S&P Global Mobility delve into the critical role of rare earth elements (REEs) in the automotive industry—particularly in the production of electric vehicle components like traction motors. China currently dominates both the production and processing of these essential materials. The discussion examines how China's control over the rare earth supply chain is shaping global industries, the geopolitical implications, and how other nations are responding in an effort to diversify their REE sources. Our experts also explore the rise of emerging technologies, including Europe's shift toward magnet-free motor designs, and consider what the future may hold for REE dependency in the evolving automotive landscape.  Speakers: Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting (Moderator), S&P Global Mobility Kartik Ganesh, Principal Research Analyst, S&P Global Mobility Jie Yang, Sr. Research Analyst, S&P Global Mobility