# European automotive industry restructuring > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-automotive-industry-restructuring > Updated: 2026-10-04T12:02:33.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. The European automotive industry is undergoing significant restructuring and job reductions driven by intense international competition and shifting market demands. Audi has closed its Brussels factory after nearly 80 years of operation, following a sharp decline in demand for electric models like the Q8 e-tron. The company also plans to reduce its German workforce by up to 7,500 positions by 2029. These developments are part of a broader trend within the Volkswagen Group, which aims to eliminate approximately 100,000 jobs by 2030 to maintain profitability. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner has stated that the industry must “change fundamentally to remain viable.” In response to these challenges, including falling sales in China and high production costs, Audi is fast-tracking the development of the A2 e-tron. This small, energy-efficient electric vehicle is intended to serve as a strategic entry-level model to boost sales volume and attract new customers. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-04: Audi CEO warns of fundamental shifts in European auto industry Audi CEO Gernot Döllner warns the European auto industry must fundamentally change as the company introduces the A2 e-tron to boost electric vehicle volume amid Volkswagen Group's massive cost-cutting plans. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/audi-ceo-warns-of-fundamental-shifts-in-european-auto-industry ### 2026-10-02: Audi closes Brussels factory as European auto industry faces job cuts Major European automakers, including Audi, Volkswagen, and Jaguar Land Rover, are implementing significant job cuts and factory closures amid rising competition and a transition to electric vehicles. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/audi-closes-brussels-factory-as-european-auto-industry-faces-job-cuts --- Cite as: European automotive industry restructuring. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-automotive-industry-restructuring