The global chip shortage has seen a number of automakers, including Tesla, suspend production temporarily. But GM is taking a different approach for some of its vehicles.
As Reuters reports, GM has decided to continue making its 2021 light-duty full-size pickup trucks, but because it can't source the required chips, they won't come installed with the expected active fuel management/dynamic fuel management module. The end result? These pickups will have lower fuel economy.
GM spokeswoman Michelle Malcho confirmed the difference only amounts to one mile per gallon. "By taking this measure, we are better able to meet the strong customer and dealer demand for our full-size trucks as the industry continues to rebound and strengthen," Malcho wrote in an email to Reuters.
Although the reduction sounds minimal, it can soon add up if you're driving tens or even hundreds of miles every day. Whether potential new owners mind will be reflected in the sales figures for these pickups. Specifically, the fuel management module will be missing from GM's pickups that use the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine with both six-speed and eight-speed automatic transmission.
Back in January we learned that automakers are running out of chips, with Ford, Fiat Chrysler, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen all facing problems sourcing the components they need to keep making new vehicles. As if that wasn't bad enough, last month chipmakers in Taiwan were told to prepare for serious water shortages, which could end up compounding the problem.