Business · Trade · 7 hrs ago
Volkswagen chief calls for European support as automaker restructures
Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume says European policymakers should help create the conditions for the German automaker’s restructuring to succeed.
He made the call before the Paris Motor Show, as Chinese carmakers expand in Europe and compete on price.
Volkswagen is simplifying its business and updating its range of electric vehicles for mass-market buyers.
It is also trying to make large job cuts and has threatened to close up to four factories in Germany.
Blume supports proposed “Made in Europe” rules to encourage local production and welcomed an EU-China deal that could more than halve Chinese plug-in hybrid imports to the bloc.
Investors want proof that Volkswagen’s recovery plan will improve products and software, not just reduce staff.
Volkswagen will present affordable electric vehicles from its VW, Cupra and Skoda brands, and unveil the ID.
Tiguan electric SUV at the show.
Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume called on European policymakers to create conditions that would support the automaker’s restructuring.
He described the effort to reduce complexity across Volkswagen as the largest transformation program in the company’s history.
The company is updating its mass-market electric vehicle lineup as Chinese automakers expand in Europe.
Volkswagen faces pressure to cut jobs and may close up to four factories in Germany.
Blume also backed proposals to encourage local production and welcomed a possible EU-China agreement on plug-in hybrid imports.
- Who
- Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume and European policymakers.
- What
- Blume called for European support and suitable conditions for Volkswagen’s restructuring.
- When
- Sunday, October 11, 2026.
- Where
- At a “For Europe” event in Paris, ahead of the Paris Motor Show.
- Why
- Volkswagen is restructuring and faces growing competition from Chinese automakers in Europe.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This is a shared responsibility: the business sector needs to become more competitive and create attractive opportunities, while policymakers must establish the right conditions.
Those who sell here must compete on similar terms and also create jobs and value here in Europe.
But if China also manages to export the price war, the European market could become very unprofitable.
Blume called a possible EU-China agreement to reduce Chinese plug-in hybrid vehicle imports an important step toward balancing competition.
Blume called for European policymakers to create conditions for Volkswagen’s restructuring at an event in Paris.
Volkswagen planned to present affordable electric vehicles and debut its ID. Tiguan electric SUV.
- CEO
- Oliver Blume
- Possible factory closures
- Up to four in Germany
- European market share
- Approximately one quarter over the past decade
- New electric SUV
- ID. Tiguan
- Chinese automakers mentioned
- BYD and Leapmotor
Sources
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