Volkswagen to axe up to 100,000 jobs and shutter four German factories

German automaker Volkswagen is reportedly preparing its largest restructuring ever, with plans that could eliminate up to 100,000 positions worldwide. The plan includes the possible closure of four production sites in Germany – the Hanover, Zwickau and Emden plants, together with Audi’s Neckarsulm facility – after the current model programmes end.

The restructuring would be accompanied by a roughly 15% cut to the group's five‑year investment programme, lowering the budget to just over €115 billion from more than €130 billion. The measures are driven by intensifying competition from Chinese car makers, tariff pressures and the high costs of the shift to electric vehicles. Volkswagen has not confirmed the leaks, and a spokesperson said any decisions will be taken by the supervisory board. Unions have warned that factory closures could trigger strong labour opposition.