[sradman]

> Leading semiconductor manufacturers reassigned capacity from automakers last year after the pandemic slashed car sales, instead shipping chips to companies that produce smartphones, gaming systems and other tech gadgets that remained in high demand.

Sounds like an inability to predict demand accurately given the uncertainties introduced by the pandemic.

[roseway4]

Yes, possibly the Bullwhip Effect[1] at play.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullwhip_effect

[ChrisIsTaken]

There is an actual wafer shortage and arrogant automotive suppliers thought they could order on short notice.

Turns out silicon valley customers like Apple and Nvidia order a year or more ahead and prepay for capacity instead of phoning at the last minute and demanding "standard" 120-day terms for the privilege of having their business. I know who I'd sell my capacity to.