VW prepares extra shifts in Zwickau

After the one-week break in production at the beginning of October, extra shifts are now being discussed again at Volkswagen's Zwickau e-car factory. Production will be adapted to the market situation, explained a company spokesperson. "Subject to the approval of the Works Council, it has been planned for several days now to run several extra shifts in Zwickau this year." He thus confirmed corresponding information from the German Press Agency and other media.

Production in Zwickau had also been reduced due to overcapacity at the German sites. The electric models from Volkswagen, Audi and Cupra are now only built there in two-shift operation. Several models are to be transferred to other VW sites in the foreseeable future. Production has also led to a reduction in the workforce of more than 10,000 employees. Most recently, the company reported around 9,200 employees at the plant.

Fears for the future of the site remain

On Wednesday, Volkswagen warned of possible production downtimes due to a lack of semiconductors. This was due to delivery problems at the supplier Nexperia. With regard to production and the planned extra shifts in Zwickau, the company said: "Current developments are being closely monitored and - if necessary - integrated into the planning."

There are still fears in Saxony about the future of the site and many other jobs at suppliers. The uncertainty is having a huge impact on the mood of the local economy, said Gunnar Bertram, Vice President of the Chemnitz Chamber of Industry and Commerce, at the presentation of the latest economic data. Therefore, clarity is needed as quickly as possible. According to Saxony's Ministry of Economic Affairs, VW has promised to maintain car production in Zwickau: "The requirement is to adhere to the Group's savings plans."