A second global chip shortage is hitting the auto industry, this time driven by the artificial intelligence boom rather than a pandemic.
AI companies racing to build data centers are consuming vast quantities of DRAM memory chips, driving prices sharply higher and forcing carmakers to scramble.
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According to a new report from consulting firm Kearney, spot prices for DRAM chips jumped roughly 450% between September 2025 and January 2026.
Just three suppliers—Samsung, Micron, and SK Hynix—handle nearly all of the world's DRAM production, and they are not significantly ramping up output.
For now, they can sell chips to the highest bidder, which is often AI companies.
Automakers Respond but Production Unchanged
Ford and General Motors have already increased their 2026 raw material procurement forecasts by several hundred million dollars as memory chip costs continue climbing.
A Volkswagen spokesperson told Automobilwoche that the company has implemented measures to assess market developments early and minimize supply risks, adding that supply chains for memory chips are currently intact.
Stellantis Senior Vice President for Global Purchasing for Electronics Joachim Kahmann said the company is planning higher procurement for 2026 and 2027 but has not yet adjusted production due to shortages.
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He expects the disruption to be temporary, predicting market conditions could improve by 2028.
Renault said it expects the industry to adapt through continuous investment and capacity expansion.
BMW, which does not purchase memory chips directly but relies on long-term agreements with suppliers, sees no signs of looming supply shortfalls and has left output untouched.
Despite the calm public statements, the risk of significant disruptions remains.
According to the ZVEI, demand from AI data centers and the years required to expand semiconductor manufacturing capacity mean pricing pressure is unlikely to ease soon.
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Almost 90% of global DRAM demand is met by Samsung, Micron, and SK Hynix, and they are far from significantly ramping up production.
