According to a report by Manager Magazin, German automaker Audi is planning a significant workforce reduction. The company reportedly aims to streamline operations by focusing layoffs on non-production roles, primarily in development departments. This shift is expected to impact at least 2,000 employees in development alone.
The restructuring could ultimately lead to a total of 4,500 job losses across the company, though Audi has not confirmed this specific number. These potential cuts come amidst ongoing discussions with employee representatives.
The news adds to the recent uncertainty faced by Audi’s Brussels plant workers, where production of the Q8 E-Tron electric SUV will cease in February 2025, resulting in an additional 3,000 job losses.
Struggling sales of the Q8 e-tron SUV are forcing Audi to shut down its Brussels factory, marking a significant milestone as the first Volkswagen Group plant closure in Europe for decades. Despite seeking alternative uses for the facility through discussions with potential investors, Audi has announced a February 28th, 2025 end date for production.
This news comes as Audi faces a wider sales slump, with US deliveries dropping 21% in the third quarter. Only the e-tron GT electric coupe and Q3 SUV saw sales increases, highlighting the challenges for the automaker’s current lineup. Meanwhile, sister brand Volkswagen grapples with similar financial woes, proposing pay cuts and bonus reductions to keep its workforce employed.
