Automakers to Face Shipping Disruptions Following Baltimore Bridge Collapse
Numerous automakers are facing shipping challenges on America's Eastern seaboard following the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, which left six people missing and presumed dead. The collapse occurred after a 948-foot container ship collided with the bridge, bringing it down almost immediately. On Tuesday, following the collapse, the Port of Baltimore said that vessel traffic in and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though trucks within the port's terminals can still be processed. The port's closing has created a logistical headache for many automakers who use the area to import vehicles into the United States. Most major automakers use this location to import and export vehicles and parts. A report from Automotive News notes that Volkswagen and BMW are two examples of automakers that will be less affected because their terminals are located east of the bridge and remain accessible. Others are not so lucky, the paper said, and are being forced to find workarounds until things can return to normal. «This is a terrible tragedy and our sym