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Forget high prices, there’s a bigger problem coming to new cars. I’m Brian Banmiller on Business.

General Motors is informing potential car buyers that two of their most popular features, heated seats and steering wheels, will not be available in many 2022 models. The news comes with lower temperatures and winter around the corner. The problem is a global shortage of semiconductor chips that are used in a variety of car parts. This has been an ongoing problem since February and forcing many automakers to build cars minus certain features. A spokesman for GM says the news about heated steering wheels and seats is hopefully temporary until chip supplies improve. The company is now looking at ways to go back and offer these options once parts become available. Dealerships say so far customers have been pretty understanding about the shortcomings due to the chip shortage. They understand that a variety of things are limiting supply and most are happy to drive off the lot with something. Especially if the price isn’t marked up. Gone are the days of coming in and selecting everything down to the color. Brian Banmiller, CBS News.

About Brian

CBS News Radio national business journalist Brian Banmiller has spent more than 40 years in the news industry, covering business, politics and the economy on television, radio and in print. Currently, his “Banmiller on Business” reports are delivered to an audience of millions nationwide.