BMW plant in US cuts output after ash cloud from volcano disrupts trans-Atlantic parts supply

Volcano forces BMW plant in US to cut production

NEW YORK — BMW AG is cutting production at its assembly plant in Spartanburg, S.C., because the volcanic eruption in Iceland has disrupted delivery of key parts for two SUVs.

BMW spokesman Jan Ehlen says volcanic ash is grounding planes that bring leather seat covers from South Africa and transmissions from Europe. He says the plant will not stop production, but employees will work shorter shifts until the supply of parts returns to normal.

The Spartanburg plant builds the X5 and X6 SUVs for the German automaker. Spartanburg is BMW’s only assembly plant in the U.S.

Ash from the Icelandic volcano has brought trans-Atlantic flights to a near standstill for five days, stranding travelers and disrupting businesses.