Xpeng CEO Says China Auto Output Might Halt If Lockdowns Persist

Chinese automakers may have to halt production in May if shutdowns persist in the Shanghai area, said the chief executive officer of electric-vehicle firm Xpeng Inc., a bleak assessment of supply-chain disruptions in the wake of Covid-19 lockdowns.

“If supply chain companies could not find a way to resume operation and production, it’s likely all Chinese OEMs may have to suspend production in May,” He Xiaopeng posted on his personal WeChat and Weibo accounts Thursday evening, referring to automakers. “Good news is some ministries and related departments are going all out to coordinate. Hopefully more government agencies could support joint efforts.”