DRESDEN (dpa-AFX) - To secure the future of the Volkswagen plant in Zwickau, Saxony's Economy Minister Dirk Panter has proposed a Chinese stake in the facility. 'China represents an opportunity for Zwickau,' the SPD politician told 'Bild'. 'It is better to further develop industrial expertise at VW in Saxony and safeguard production than to fight a losing battle and lose value creation.'
Zwickau plant a pioneer in e-mobility
The Zwickau plant, which employs around 8,000 people, exclusively manufactures electric vehicles. Within the VW Group, the site is a pioneer in e-mobility. However, as part of group-wide cost-cutting measures, approximately 1,200 jobs have already been eliminated. Production has shifted from three shifts to two. A site guarantee remains in place until 2030.
Joint venture could utilize undercapacity production lines
According to the report, Panter is advocating for a joint venture between Volkswagen and a Chinese manufacturer. One or more production lines currently operating under capacity could be used to manufacture vehicles. China is an innovation driver and pioneer in many areas of electromobility, Panter said.
VW Saxony recently firmly rejected rumors regarding a Chinese manufacturer taking a stake in the Glaeserne Manufaktur (Transparent Factory) in Dresden./jbl/DP/zb
