Business · Companies · 12 hrs ago
VW chief urges European policymakers to improve conditions for carmakers
Volkswagen chief Oliver Blume has called on European policymakers to create conditions that help businesses compete.
He spoke on Sunday at an event before the Paris auto show.
Volkswagen is carrying out the biggest transformation program in its history, which includes major changes to the company.
European carmakers such as Volkswagen and Stellantis face competition from Chinese manufacturers, weak demand and high costs as they shift to electric vehicles.
At the Paris show, carmakers plan to present newer, more affordable electric models to demonstrate their competitiveness.
Blume said improving competitiveness is a shared task for business and government.
Volkswagen chief executive Oliver Blume urged European policymakers to create conditions that would help carmakers become more competitive.
He said businesses must improve competitiveness and offer attractive products, while governments must set the right framework.
Blume made the remarks at an event on Sunday, on the eve of the Paris Motor Show.
Volkswagen is pursuing what the article describes as the largest transformation programme in its history.
European manufacturers including Volkswagen and Stellantis face competition, weak demand and high costs from the shift to electric vehicles.
- Who
- Volkswagen chief executive Oliver Blume.
- What
- He urged European policymakers to set the right conditions for carmakers and said businesses also need to become more competitive.
- When
- Sunday, on the eve of the Paris Motor Show; the article was published on 11 October 2026.
- Where
- At an event ahead of the Paris Motor Show. The event's location is not stated.
- Why
- Carmakers face competition, weak demand and high costs associated with the transition to electric vehicles.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The economy must become more competitive and create attractive offerings, while policymakers must set the right framework.
Europe's future lies in our common hands.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Speaker
- Oliver Blume
- Company
- Volkswagen
- Event
- Paris Motor Show
- Published
- 11 October 2026
- Industry pressures
- Competition, weak demand and high costs of the transition to electric vehicles
Sources
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