When James Charles-Roberts booked a vehicle back in May, he and his family were looking forward to a two-week holiday in Southern California.
The problem started when nearly all travel was halted at the outset of COVID-19 lockdowns and travel restrictions. Now, the situation has reversed. As the economy reopens and demand returns, a global shortage of semiconductors has crippled vehicle production and caused lengthy delays for new cars and trucks.
In the meantime, car rental operators are jacking up rates amid the tight supply and increasing demand. Many airport locations in East Coast cities like Halifax, Charlottetown and St. John's are nearly sold out on weekends this summer.