Automakers, suppliers propose strategy to replace key resin
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The auto industry may soon have a strategy to avoid vehicle production interruptions that could be caused by the critical shortage of a key resin used in a variety of components.
General Motors, Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Hyundai-Kia, Volkswagen and 19 parts suppliers have reached a general consensus on how to quickly replace the resin, called nylon 12, according to a statement issued Monday by the Auto Industry Action Group.
The trade group is scheduled to hold a meeting to finalize the plan on April 30, the statement said.
Nylon 12 supplies have neared critical lows after a March 31 explosion at a chemical plant in Germany. Automakers and suppliers have been meeting to get ahold of the situation as the specter that the material shortage could halt vehicle assembly lines have grown.
Nylon 12 is used in a variety of automotive components such as brake lines, fuel lines and other systems.
You can reach Ryan Beene at rbeene@crain.com. -- Follow Ryan on 
