Audi announced on Monday that it will reduce its workforce by 7,500 jobs in Germany due to significant challenges facing the automotive industry. These cuts, to be completed by the end of 2029, make up approximately 8% of Audi’s global staff and are intended to enhance productivity, speed, and adaptability. Audi, a part of the Volkswagen group, attributes the need for job reductions to increasingly difficult economic conditions, mounting competitive pressures, and political uncertainties.

Audi Management Board Chair, Gernot Döllner, assured that there will be no forced redundancies for employees until the end of 2033, extending the existing job security program beyond its current end-date of 2029. Job reductions prior to 2029 will be achieved through voluntary redundancies and the natural conclusion of contracts.

The German automotive sector, which has been a cornerstone of the country’s industrial success for decades, is experiencing a downturn. Audi’s decision to cut jobs reflects the broader challenges facing the industry, which is dealing with decreased production due to a slowing economy, the transition to electric cars, strong competition from China, low demand, and the potential threat of U.S. tariffs. These factors contribute to a more challenging business environment for German car manufacturers.

edited by: Wesley Dockery

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/germany-auto-giant-audi-to-slash-7-500-jobs-from-workforce/a-71956776?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf