North American Supplier Confidence Grows
Auto parts makers in North America are more optimistic about the industry's outlook because of stabilizing sales and production in the region, according to the Automobile Supplier Barometer Sentiment Index.
#economics
Auto parts makers in North America are more optimistic about the industry's outlook because of stabilizing sales and production in the region, according to the Automobile Supplier Barometer Sentiment Index.
The index, which is compiled by the Original Equipment Suppliers Assn. from a survey of its members, climbed to 66 in May from 59 in April.
The Troy, Mich.-based group says only 4% of those surveyed were pessimistic about the business compared with 12% in March. The shrinking European auto market remains a major concern.
Some respondents report a significant increase in North American demand, in part because of the large number of new-model launches in the next 12 to 24 months. OESA estimates that about one new model will be launched per month in the region.
Parts makers are squeezing more output from existing factories, thus pushing their median capacity utilization rate to 89% from 85% a year ago. About half of those surveyed, predominantly powertrain suppliers, say they have a significant level of supply chain constraints.
RELATED CONTENT
-
Enterprise Edges into Self-Driving Car Market
U.S. rental car giant Enterprise Holdings Inc. is the latest company to venture into the world of self-driving vehicles.
-
Achieving Efficiency?
A look at on-road fuel economy changes over 92 years.
-
on the Genesis GV60 interior, EV sales in H1, Bentley Bentayga's wood work, Faurecia's advanced manufacturing & more
The strange glowing orb in the Genesis GV60. . .global EV sales in the first half. . .creating wood for the Bentayga interior. . .the importance of material handling at Faurecia. . .lux ATPs. . .fast Porsche. . .fast Lambo. . .the Avalon Hybrid. . .Silverado steel. . .