Despite tariffs, EV disruption and supply chain pressure, supplier relationships improved across all six major North American OEMs for the first time in 26 years. Dr. Angela Johnson explains what changed — and why communication and trust are becoming critical competitive advantages.
BIRMINGHAM, Mich. — Supplier relations improved for all six major North American automakers in 2026 despite tariff pressures and electric vehicle cost challenges, according to Plante Moran’s annual Working Relations Index study.
DETROIT—The Detroit Three still have poor relations with their supplier base compared with their Japanese competitors domestically, according to a survey released Monday by consulting firm Planning Perspectives Inc.
DETROIT—With North American vehicle production headed toward 15 million-plus units next year, automakers are encountering a new breed of supplier: the one that says “no.”
