The ongoing chip shortage is having its effect on the automotive industry. In fact, production is slowing, and some models are in increasingly high demand as supply runs low. Here’s what the chip shortage means if you want to buy a new Toyota Tacoma.

What are semiconductor chips and why are they important?

According to Investopedia, a semiconductor chip consists primarily of silicon. Silicon is a semiconductor that conducts electricity at a faster rate than an insulator and slower than a conductor. Due to the fact that this semiconductor is easily tailored to a specific device’s needs, we find Semiconductor chips in virtually every electronic device––including the 2021 Toyota Tacoma.

In our daily lives, we find silicon semiconductor chips in things like household appliances, smartphones, and our cars, trucks, or SUVs. Without these vital units, production cannot be completed for anything that involves a computer. Because computers are a significant component in every automobile made today, they aren’t finished without the appropriate semiconductor chips to complete the system.

New Toyota Tacoma chip shortage

The new Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra supply is dwindling. According to Road Show, the chip shortage is already affecting pricing incentives on new Toyota pickup trucks. The Dallas Morning News reports that the semiconductor shortage has deeply impacted the production of Toyota pickup trucks. The Toyota Tundra, for instance, has seen heavy hits on production for months.

In addition, winter weather in Texas (where factories build Toyota pickup trucks) slowed things down. So a global semiconductor chip shortage combined with ongoing shipping issues means slow production of vehicles. In fact, the shortage is a huge blow for a number of automakers including Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Ford. In the case of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, the stock is dwindling.

What this means if you want a Toyota pickup truck

According to Car and Driver, the chip shortage is going to make it increasingly difficult to find a good deal on a new car, truck, or SUV. Interested in a popular model like the new Toyota Tacoma? Well, there’s a good chance you’ll face a slim selection and a lack of motivating sales incentives. In fact, this spring might not be the best time to buy a new vehicle.

Dealers are driving up prices due to high demand. Thinking about buying a new Toyota Tacoma truck? Waiting may prove a wise decision. Buyers face higher pricing, low incentives, and decreased selection. However, you might want a new truck now, regardless. If such is the case, act quickly.

Buying a new truck

Buying a new Toyota Tacoma truck is tempting. We watch each year as new models of the beloved Taco debut. Each year, Toyota releases a new version of North America’s best-selling compact pickup truck.

However, now is perhaps not the time for haste. A too-fast buying decision could result in remorse down the road. As the semiconductor shortage lets up production will ramp back up. An expensive new Toyota Tacoma truck today may boast a more discounted price with higher incentives down the road.