BMW Australia is feeling the impact of the continuing microprocessor scarcity asserting that as much as 200 vehicles might be offered domestically with out touchscreen performance and chosen different options.
The autos affected embody chosen 2 Sequence, 3 Sequence, and 4 Sequence variants, some X5, X6, and X7 SUVs, and even the sporty Z4 roadster.
Whereas affected autos retain their central infotainment show, BMW Australia says homeowners might want to rely on the console-mounted iDrive rotary controller or ‘Hey BMW’ voice instructions to make use of the system’s varied options.
Removing of contact performance additionally means chosen fashions will arrive with out BMW’s Reversing Assistant Function which permits the automobile to reverse out of tight parking areas autonomously from a distance of fifty metres.
A BMW Australia spokesperson mentioned the removing of touchscreen performance and its related applied sciences was short-term however essential to preserve the manufacturing line transferring. Affected fashions could be discounted by $800.
“BMW Group Australia can affirm it has needed to quickly revise the specification of sure fashions in mild of the worldwide semiconductor scarcity and has adjusted pricing accordingly,” a BMW Australia spokesperson mentioned in a press release.
“Our goal is to make sure provides proceed to succeed in our manufacturing crops. To this finish, we’re in fixed alternate with our suppliers and talk our reasonable necessities in good time.”
BMW confronted comparable semiconductor-related gear downgrades earlier this yr when its Driving Assistant Skilled security suite and passenger seat lumbar help applied sciences had been pulled from chosen autos.
Whereas comparable points face a spread of car producers worldwide, firms together with Toyota have mentioned they won’t ‘de-spec’ their autos as a way to keep supply occasions. Final month, Toyota Australia advised GoAuto that longer supply occasions might outcome from the model’s determination, however that de-specifying vehicles just isn’t within the model’s considering.
“When chip shortages regarded seemingly in 2019, Toyota deviated from the well-known ‘simply in time’ sourcing to offer semiconductor producers extra demand,” Toyota Australia vp of gross sales, advertising and marketing and franchise operations Sean Hanley mentioned.
“Actually, this enabled us to safe stock for semiconductors months upfront, and I can guarantee you, we’ve no plans, no plans to de-spec any of our autos. In brief, it’s not a part of our considering.”
The worldwide semiconductor scarcity continues to influence the supply of autos worldwide with Ford, Hyundai, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Stellantis, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, and Volkswagen all delaying new mannequin launches.
The Semiconductor Business Affiliation mentioned elevated demand for laptops, tablets, and different expertise objects all through the COVID-19 pandemic elevated demand for its product by greater than 6.5 per cent at a time when shutdowns had been impacting chief chip manufacturing services in China, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea.
The business is alleged to be working “at capability” to handle the shortfall in demand, however the delays imply automobile manufacturing won’t return to regular for as much as 12 months.
