There is a global shortage of microchips. These are needed, among other things, to build cars and due to the shortage, the delivery times of new cars can rise considerably to well over six months.
Such a long delivery time on a new car is of course very annoying. Fortunately, there are also solutions, but we will zoom in on the microchips themselves and how the shortage arose.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is also known as an integrated circuit (IC). A chip is a small piece of silicon (semiconducting material) provided with a large number of microscopic electronic circuits. Computer chips are in electronic devices but also in cars. The number of chips in cars has also increased many times over. Modern cars often contain many dozens of computer chips.
How did the chip shortage arise?
The shortage of computer chips was caused by a combination of circumstances during the pandemic. At the beginning of the pandemic, the demand for computer chips from the automotive industry fell sharply, as the demand for new cars also plummeted. At the same time, the demand for electronic devices increased enormously. Many people invested in new electronic equipment during these times; think of monitors and mobile phones, for example. This has had a huge impact on the availability of computer chips. And we are still hindered by this to this day. Due to the shortage of chips, the delivery times of cars are increasing.
Expected delivery times
We are in daily contact with dealers and suppliers. This enables us to keep a good overview of the expected delivery times per make and model. Because the situation can change quickly, it is difficult to give a good prognosis in terms of delivery time. The shortages are expected to persist until mid-2022. Fortunately, not all cars have delayed delivery times. Have you not ordered a car yet and/or need a car in the short term? In that case, ALD Automotive has a large number of cars in stock.
o ALD Promo Deals: Our Promo Deals are (almost) all in stock and have already been put together for you. This way you can always be sure of a readily available car with the best options at the best price.
o Occasion Lease: In addition to a new range of cars, we also offer Occasion Lease or Private Occasion Lease. You can lease these young used lease cars at an attractive rate and they are also quickly available.
If the delivery of the lease car is delayed, there are other solutions available:
o Flexible mobility: While waiting for your car, you can opt for an ALD Flex solution. You can drive this car from 1 month.
o Renew contract: Do you currently drive an ALD Automotive car? Then extending your contract may be an option. You then continue driving in your trusted lease car until your new car is delivered.
o Adjusting your order: by adjusting your order and, for example, cancelling options, it is possible that your car can be prepared faster. The dealer can help you with this.
o Electric bicycle: Prefer a more sustainable and healthier alternative in the meantime? Then a short lease electric bicycle might be the solution for your company. In that way you also contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions.
Finally
Finally, it is good to know that the chip shortage can also have consequences for maintenance and damage repair of your car. If the required part is not in stock, the repair time may take longer than usual. This does not only apply to electronic parts of your car. If you have any questions about chip shortages, delivery times, or any of the above solutions, please do not hesitate to contact us on +31 (0)20 658 70 00. We are happy to serve you!