Times are difficult for Volkswagen. In the grip of an unprecedented structural crisis, the group achieved an agreement with the trade unions on money savings, without dismissal and without factories. But this will include some changes.
Volkswagen experienced better days, at least. The German group itself symbolizes all the problems that the European automotive industry currently encounters, among the sale of electric cars that stagnates (see this decline, etc.), increased costs and foreign competition.
As you know, Volkswagen is trying to achieve approximately four billion savings and after considering the worst scenario, The group recently agreed with trade unions to prevent dry layoffs and factories.
Go on
Volkswagen makes a difficult decision to save its factories: 1/3 of deleted tasks
But the situation does not necessarily remain as it is, And she forces a group to accept some structural changesAlthough it means making teeth, especially the most conservative.
And this small game is rumors rough. Indeed, according to Financial times,, Volkswagen could soon close a partnership with a Chinese car manufacturer to produce its vehicles in insufficiently used European giant factories.
This hypothesis, already listed in recent discussions, was publicly supported by two Volkswagen managers. Obviously, the parallel can be done with Stellantis, which produced electric cars Leapmor for several weeks for the European market at the Polish factory in Tychy.
Strategic opening of cooperation
Gernot Döllner, CEO of Audi, declared himself a favorable idea to provide excess Volkswagen factories for Chinese manufacturers. “It’s quite possible”said Financial times. According to him, such a decision would allow customs fees of Chinese competition in Europe and at the same time emphasize its attachment to the principle of free trade.
David Powels, the financial director of the Volkswagen brand, also expressed some flexibility in this regard: “We are open to any discussion of any topic with any partner.” In the dynamic world, you must maintain all open options. »»
Discussion already in full swing
Although these statements give the impression of opening future discussions, specific negotiations would have already taken place. According to Magazine,, Interviews would be involved in the Chinese manufacturer for joint production at the Volkswagen factory in Germany in Germany in GermanyWhere is currently produced by ID.4 and ID.7. However, high costs slowed down Chinese partners.
In mid -January, agency Reuters They said that the Chinese authorities and car manufacturers have shown interest in capturing some “undesirable” factories from Volkswagen. In the face of the political sensitivity of such a purchase, the idea of a common company was quickly presented as an alternative.
Two pages are especially in the Center of Discussion, Namely Dresden and Osnabrück. Production in Dresden, where Volkswagen ID.3 is produced, is provided until the end of 2025, while in Osnabrück it should continue until 2027. The Dresden Volkswagen is investigating a “Alternative global concept”According to the latest group press release. The Osnabrück factory is the subject of studies on the development and “Future Economic Perspective”.
Which Chinese partners for Volkswagen?
It remains to find out which Chinese manufacturers can work with the German group. Volkswagen has a historically solid connection with the Chinese companies SAIC (to which MG) and FAW belong. Audi already has a partnership with SAIC for the production of electric vehicles for the Chinese market.
It is also possible to assume European cooperation with Xpeng, who has recently become a partner of Volkswagen development.
Want to find the best Fandroid items in Google Messages? You can watch Fandroid in Google messages with one click.