Volkswagen is considering a sweeping restructuring plan that could eliminate up to 100,000 jobs and shutter four production facilities in Germany, according to reports citing confidential documents.
The proposal represents the most significant overhaul in the company’s history, marking a decisive break from previous incremental cost-cutting measures.
Sources indicate the automaker is preparing to ramp up job reductions to this unprecedented level as it seeks to align its workforce with shifting global demand and the transition to electric vehicles.
The potential closure of four German plants underscores the severity of the strategic shift.
While Volkswagen has previously discussed workforce reductions, the magnitude of this plan—targeting a substantial portion of its global headcount—signals a fundamental reassessment of its European footprint.
The move is expected to trigger strong resistance from labor unions, which have historically been powerful stakeholders in German industrial policy.