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It might seem odd that the auto industry is affected by a volcano in Iceland, but both BMW and Nissan have parts shipments that were grounded because of the recent eruption. BMW is idling three of their European plants and reporting parts shortages in Spartanburg County, while Nissan is expecting that Cube, Rogue and Juke crossover production will be delayed by a typically-air-freighted pneumatic sensor.

While stranded passengers are beginning to move, both companies are claiming that the volcano, which grounded almost all flights in and out of Europe, has forced reductions in production, even for the American market. Due to the nature of the delays, Nissan isn’t sure how long production will be reduced, but a spokesperson for the automaker said that even one day will cause a 2,000 unit setback.

BMW is facing similar delays, and has halted production at its plants in Dingolfing (which produces 5- and 7-series sedans) and the Munich and Regensburg plants (which produce the 3-series and 1-series and Z4, respectively), but hopes to resume normal workflow by April 23rd. The Bavarian automaker is expecting a 7.000 unit shortage.

The ground-stop of air freight has caused a delay in electronics and interior components, BMW adds.

According to Left Lane News, BMW may also have to idle their plant in Spartanburg, SC plant, though if trans-Atlantic flights resume, they may be able to keep that site open and functioning.

Filed under: BMW, Nissan by Mel