Taiwan’s automotive parts makers are accelerating their transformation into high-tech suppliers as the global expansion of advanced semiconductor capacity and AI server infrastructure creates new demand for precision-engineered components. Companies traditionally focused on powertrain, transmission, and safety systems are leveraging decades of manufacturing expertise to secure positions in semiconductor equipment and AI liquid-cooling supply chains, creating new growth engines beyond their core automotive businesses.

Reports have emerged that Apple may have managed to avoid 100% tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, partly by agreeing to partner with Intel to manufacture its chips. While Apple could benefit from expanding its chip suppliers, the episode also shows the power of Intel’s government backing as the US seeks to reshore its semiconductor industry.

Intel is reportedly preparing a new technology roadmap for its next-generation 1.4nm process, 14A2, as it evaluates a hybrid architecture that can deliver power from both sides of the chip. Industry observers say Intel and Samsung Electronics are both taking on harder-to-manufacture technologies in the ultra-advanced process race as they try to catch up with TSMC.