Audi

The Audi plant in Neckarsulm is one of four VW sites at risk until 2034, threatening about 15,500 jobs and tens of thousands of supplier positions. Internal cost comparisons show significantly higher factory costs in Neckarsulm compared with Zwickau, while the group is reorganizing plants due to falling sales and competitive pressure. The city, the works council and politicians are pushing for competitive adjustments and want to bring an electric volume model like the Q4 to Neckarsulm, as well as regional concepts for digitization and AI, to prevent a complete shutdown. » More on faz.net

The start of production for the new electric A4 generation is being delayed by about three months to spring 2029. The reason is additional development work on the SSP platform, in particular the changeover of the on-board electrical system from 12 to 48 volts. Audi chief Döllner defends the step as a necessary technological leap; the platform is intended to carry all of the VW Group’s e-models in the future and is therefore strategically important. » More on sueddeutsche.de

The electric A4 e‑tron on the new SSP platform has been postponed by almost a year to no earlier than March 2029, possibly even late April/early May, according to company sources. The SSP platform as a whole is about three years behind schedule, which could leave Audi at a competitive disadvantage to BMW and Mercedes in the electric mid‑size segment. Insiders cite technical hurdles, extensive corporate coordination, cost‑cutting mandates and the decision to introduce a 48‑volt electrical system as reasons; electric versions of the Golf and T‑Roc are therefore not expected before 2030. » More on golem.de