Brampton Chrysler plant temporarily closes as automakers battle with gamers for microchips

Online gamers are shouldering some of the blame for the worldwide shortage of computer chips that has temporarily closed car manufacturers, including Brampton’s Chrysler plant.

The increase in demand for electronics and gaming products during the pandemic has resulted in the closure this month of five Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler) plants in the United States, Mexico and Canada for several weeks, affecting more than 18,300 workers.

Brampton Assembly has shut down for several weeks this month.

“Stellantis continues to work closely with our suppliers to mitigate the manufacturing impacts caused by the various supply chain issues facing our industry,” the company said.

The microchip shortage stems from a variety of factors, including the auto industry competing against the electronics industry for a limited supply during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With more people at home, demand for electronic products such as laptops and gaming consoles has greatly increased.

Another factor in the straining of supplies included automakers selling more vehicles than expected.

The other Canadian plant that had to put a stop on production was Windsor Assembly (Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid minivans).

Other Stellantis plants that had to shut down include Warren Truck (Ram 1500 Classic pickup) in Michigan, Belvidere Assembly Plant (Jeep Cherokee SUV) in Illinois and Toluca Assembly (Jeep Compass) west of Mexico City.

INSAUGA PHOTO