So, that semiconductor shortage is hitting everyone pretty hard, isn’t it? A large part of the economy is run by companies who thrive on the production of consumer electronics and goods. Without those, we may be in a completely different timeline right now – sorry, different world, too much Loki on Disney+. Just think of where we’d be without semiconductor chips. Everything computerized has these chips at their core, and with automobiles getting more advanced, offering smart phone and wireless connectivity, heads-up displays, level 3 autonomous driving aids, sensors and LiDar systems for level 4 autonomy – this is another industry taking a hit. The latest comes from General Motors and Chevrolet.

As the chip shortage continues, model lineups are bound to be affected. During our earlier report, Nissan, Suzuki, and Mitsubishi Motors were struggling to keep production going, and with future concepts floating around, we’re not sure how the rebadge of Renault vehicles by Mitsubishi Motors will go. Many manufacturing plants have already been shut down, unable to work without resources. Some automakers are simply adapting to the change instead of trying to produce less units and shutting down.

Ram Trucks is also in battle with semiconductors affecting production, but with the Ram 1500 Classic still being released year after year, the outdated technology may actually be the saving grace for the pickup truck automaker. Sure, Uconnect 4C with navigation on a 12-inch touchscreen, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot are all nice additions, but they aren’t absolutely necessary in an automobile – these are simple entertainment options – most people just want a good sound system and the ability to play tunes from their phone. I drove a car with just a CD player for ten years, and I’m not alone. The best and most advanced features on the Ram 1500 Classic Warlock are automatic dual-zone temperature control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power sunroof.

General Motors and Chevrolet seem to be taking the same direction when it comes to salvaging their extensive lineups, especially when it comes to SUVs and pickup trucks. Instead of dropping vehicles from the production line, features by GM are going to be affected the most by the semiconductor chip shortage. Production has taken priority to manage supplies and resources. This means unnecessary features like fuel-saving and wireless connectivity, although nice, are going to be missing from some vehicles in 2021. This includes engine start/stop and cylinder deactivation, plus the convenient feature of being able to charge mobile devices without plugging in a wire, with the removal of wireless mobile device charging pads from several SUV trims. The models that will be affected the most are Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban LT, Z71, Premier, and High Country trims. For consumers purchasing these vehicles, a $75 credit is being applied for the missing tech.

In light of this news, AutoForecast Solutions states that due to the conservation efforts taken by GM, the automotive group has only maybe lost a couple thousand units of full-size pickup trucks this year. By next year, GM already plans to restore these features for 2022 model year vehicles. With the second-half of the year already underway, automakers will start releasing 2022 model year vehicles in the coming months. If these features are a deal-breaker for you, on NowCar we can help you find the features you want when you shop for a new car online with NowCar.

Photo Source/Copyright: GM