As Japan Shutdowns Drag On, Auto Crisis Worsens. Much of Japan's auto industry, 2. largest supplier of cars in the world, remains idle

This is the biggest impact ever in the history of the automobile industry.

The auto industry disruptions triggered by Japan's earthquake and tsunami are about to get worse.

Few plants were seriously damaged by the quake, but with supplies of water and electricity fleeting, no one can say when factories will crank up. Some auto analysts say it could be as late as this summer.

Hitachi Automotive Systems, which makes parts such as airflow sensors and drive control systems, is waiting for its suppliers to restart while dealing with its own problems. Its plants are without water and gas, and have rolling electricity blackouts.

Car buyers will soon see higher prices and fewer choices. Some car colors will be harder to get because a paint pigment factory in Japan was damaged and shut production.

As Japan Shutdowns Drag On, Auto Crisis Worsens - CNBC

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from http://cnbc.com