‘Unprecedented’ global chip shortage pushing electric vehicle delays into years
Global News
Delays for new electric and hybrid cars are stretching from months into years as a global semiconductor shortage persists, limiting stock at dealerships.
When Jesse Chiasson called a car dealership last month to buy a new vehicle, he ended up paying $1,000 to be put on a waitlist instead.
“The salesman was pretty vague but hinted it could be 2024 by the time we get the car,” Chiasson said in an interview from Bathurst, N.B.
“Worst-case scenario, we could be waiting as long as three years.”
Canadians across the country are facing lengthy wait times for new vehicles as an ongoing supply chain crunch and shortage of computer chips hinders carmakers from making enough to meet demand.
The problem appears to be worse for electric automobiles. Government rebates, rising gas prices and growing climate change concerns appear to be worsening the shortage of hybrid, plug-in and fully electric cars.
“We expected a wait but we were still shocked at how long it could be,” Chiasson said of the delay for a new Kia EV6. “They also said the price could change.”
Many vehicles are sold before they even hit the lot, leaving some dealership parking lots nearly empty while waiting lists grow indeterminately longer.
The lack of inventory affects salespeople, many of whom rely on commissions to earn a living.
