Volkswagen recently announced plans to close three plants in Germany, and now its subsidiary, Audi, is also preparing to cut costs by reducing its workforce by 15 percent. This will affect approximately 4,500 employees, with around 2,000 of those positions being indirect jobs, such as development roles.
According to a report by Manager Magazin, Audi plans to protect jobs in the production department while letting go of employees in indirect positions.
In the third quarter, Audi reported a 21 percent decline in sales, with the number of units sold in the U.S. dropping to about 46,752. Most models saw a decrease in sales, with the exception of the electric vehicle, the e-tron GT EV, which experienced a modest five percent increase in units sold. Meanwhile, the Q3 SUV saw a 36 percent increase, totaling 7,422 units sold.
This news follows the recent announcement of Volkswagen’s intention to shut down three German plants, a decision that marks a significant shift for the company after 80 years of operation. Volkswagen also revealed plans to lay off thousands of employees and implement a 10 percent pay cut.
Additionally, the Audi plant in Brussels, which manufactures the Audi Q8 E-tron, an electric SUV facing declining demand, is slated for closure. By February 2025, approximately 3,000 workers may lose their jobs at this site.
