√Earthquake in Japan forces Toyota and Nissan factory closures

It’s unclear if Australia’s already constricted supply will be hampered by the disaster.

A devastating earthquake in Japan has forced carmakers Toyota and Nissan to temporarily shutter local factories – however, it’s so far unclear if Australian supply will be affected.

The

magnitude 7.4 shudder struck off the coast of Fukushima on Wednesday morning local time, injuring hundreds and tragically killing at least two people.

As a result of damage to facilities and the ongoing risk to staff, Toyota closed its Iwate and Miyagi plants, which lie in the region, for a day. Nissan also closed its Iwaki engine plant.

While the fallout is not expected to be extreme due to the relatively short downtime period, it’s so far unclear which markets will be hit hardest by reduced output – as the world combats already-strained automotive supply lines.

A spokesperson for Nissan Australia told Drive: “Our priority is to ensure the well-being of our employees and our surrounding communities … We will continue to monitor the situation.”

Drive has contacted a spokesperson for Toyota Australia requesting comment, and this story will be updated when more information becomes available.

Supply chains shortcoming – primarily due to an ongoing semiconductor shortage – have wreaked havoc on the automotive industry over the past two years, reducing supply and driving up prices worldwide.

You can read Drive‘s full coverage of stock shortages by clicking here.

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