Volkswagen reportedly plans up to 100,000 job cuts and plant closures
8 reported
According to a report from Germany’s Manager Magazin, Volkswagen is planning to cut up to 100,000 jobs and reduce or stop production at some plants, including four German factories. The company has refused to comment on the reports, which describe a management presentation at a board meeting outlining dramatic cost cutting. If implemented, the cuts would double previously announced staff reductions. Volkswagen employs more than 650,000 people across its brands, including Audi, Bentley, Skoda, Seat and Cupra. The carmaker has been affected by growing Chinese competition and the shift to electric cars. A spokesperson said the company would not “pre-empt the process” and noted challenges from Chinese rivals in Europe. Chief executive Oliver Blume’s overhaul is expected to be discussed at a supervisory board meeting next month.
What’s reported
Volkswagen reportedly plans to cut up to 100,000 jobs and reduce or stop production at some plants.
The report from Manager Magazin says the proposals include closure of four German factories: an Audi site in Neckarsulm and VW plants in Hanover, Zwickau and Emden.
The cuts would double previously announced staff reductions.
Volkswagen employs more than 650,000 people across all its brands.
The company has been hit by Chinese competition and the shift to electric cars.
A spokesperson said the company would not “pre-empt the process” and cited tariffs, competition, and “stagnating, sometimes declining” markets.
Chief executive Oliver Blume has announced a strategy to cut €11bn (£9.49bn) from costs.
In March 2026, VW reclaimed car sales dominance in China, holding a combined 13.9% share of the passenger vehicle market.
Key figures
Oliver Blume, chief executive of Volkswagen
Volkswagen spokesperson (unnamed)
BYD’s boss (unnamed)
Sources: The Guardian
