The spread of the new coronavirus in Europe is forcing the region's automakers to suspend production activities.
The automakers expect sales to plunge and parts supplies to stall, as European governments restrict the movement of people.
Fiat Chrysler announced on Monday that it will suspend production at all its main plants, including six in Italy, until March 27.
Renault has idled all its plants in France. Peugeot and Citroen will halt all production in Europe until March 27.
The Volkswagen group has suspended production at all its factories in Spain.
Analysts say a prolonged halt in auto production would affect parts suppliers, transport, retail and many other sectors. They say this could deal a heavy blow to the regional economy.
NHK
