The VDA further noted that political leaders in Berlin and Brussels cannot insulate factories from shifting future business models.
"These decisions are difficult and must be developed in dialogue with all stakeholders. They will require a willingness to change from all of us," said Müller.
A recent report by Boston Consulting highlighted that Europe's production capacity now exceeds regional demand by more than 5 million vehicles annually, equivalent to 35 production sites across the continent.
Volkswagen aims to implement this comprehensive cost-cutting program by 2030, doubling its previously planned cuts and potentially closing several plants.
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Trade union IG Metall has called for a day of action on Thursday at all VW locations, including scheduled events at Emden, Zwickau, Hanover, and Kassel.